Movies with Spirit: The Intouchables

The Kingston Library is joining forces with Movies with Spirit to bring you a special after hours screening of The Intouchables, inspired by the true-life story about French multimillionaire businessman Philippe Pozzo di Borgo and his French-Algerian caregiver, Abdel Sellou.

In French with English subtitles. Rated R. 

This buddy comedy drama tells the true story of Philippe, a wealthy Parisian aristocrat and habitual thrill-seeker who became paralyzed from the neck down in a paragliding accident. He has since had caregivers, but none has worked out, so now he’s looking again. While interviewing one boring candidate after another, Philippe suddenly sees a man barge into the room. The man, Driss, hands a sheet of paper to Phillipe and asks him to sign it. It’s from the unemployment office. Driss says he wants Phillipe to sign it so that Driss, a Senegalese immigrant out on parole, can prove he’s looking for work to qualify for unemployment benefits. Philippe is taken aback but also intrigued by Driss’ audacity, cheekiness, and spirit. He then astonishes Driss and his own household staff by offering the job to him, complete with room and board in Philippe’s mansion. When Driss moves in, his relationship with Philippe is just as a caregiver. But over time it builds into a warm, exciting friendship that enriches both men’s lives. Winner of 38 critic and festival awards. “A stirring and thoughtful story of the power of friendship and a tribute to the strength of the human spirit.” — Mike Scott, The (New Orleans) Times-Picayune. “Exuberantly charming.” — Claudia Puig, USA Today. “I defy anyone not to be delighted.” — Chris Hewitt, St. Paul (Minn.) Pioneer Press.  

Refreshments provided. Screening followed by a facilitated discussion. 

No registration, meet in the Community Room.