Can Dostum (Film)

Intouchables is a 2011 French comedy-drama film written and directed by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano. It stars François Cluzet and Omar Sy. The film tells the story of Philippe, a wealthy aristocrat left paralyzed after an accident, and his new caregiver Driss, a young man from the suburbs with a criminal record.

Plot

Philippe, a wealthy businessman confined to a wheelchair, is searching for a new caregiver. Driss, who reluctantly attends the interview and has a criminal past, captures Philippe’s attention with his unconventional demeanor, unlike the other candidates. Contrary to expectations, Philippe hires Driss as his caregiver. Initially representatives of two vastly different worlds, Philippe and Driss gradually form an unusual and powerful friendship. Driss’s cheerful and carefree attitude helps Philippe reconnect with life, while Philippe offers Driss a new perspective on life.

Thematic Structure

• Class Differences and Friendship: The film explores the unexpected friendship between two individuals from different social and economic classes, demonstrating that prejudice and class barriers can be overcome.
• Disability and the Joy of Life: Despite the challenges posed by physical disability, Philippe’s determination to hold on to life and Driss’s ability to instill in him a sense of joy are central themes of the film.
• Prejudices and Human Connections: The gradual dismantling of the characters’ initial prejudices and the strengthening of their human bond form one of the film’s core messages.
• Seeing Life from Different Perspectives: The color Driss brings to Philippe’s dull and monotonous life, and the new outlook Philippe offers Driss, emphasize the importance of viewing life from different angles.
• Authenticity and Acceptance: Driss’s refusal to pretend and Philippe’s acceptance of him as he is form the foundation of genuine and sincere relationships.

Production and Release Information

The film, written and directed by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano, stars François Cluzet and Omar Sy in the lead roles. Production was handled by Nicolas Duval-Adassovsky, Laurent Zeitoun, and Yann Zenou. Cinematography was by Mathieu Vadepied, and the music was composed by Ludovico Einaudi. The film premiered in France on 2 November 2011 and was released in Türkiye under the title Can Dostum.

Cast

• François Cluzet – Philippe
• Omar Sy – Driss
• Anne Le Ny – Yvonne
• Audrey Fleurot – Magalie
• Clotilde Mollet – Marcelle