The Nature of Love: A Sizzling French-Canadian Romcom

A review of the French-Canadian romantic comedy, The Nature of Love, which explores the messy realities of a mismatched love affair between a philosophy lecturer and a contractor.
The Nature of Love: A Sizzling French-Canadian Romcom
Photo by Léonard Cotte on Unsplash

The Nature of Love: A Sizzling French-Canadian Romcom

Love is in the air

In the vibrant French-Canadian romantic comedy, The Nature of Love, director Monia Chokri takes a familiar trope - opposites attract - and turns it on its head. The film follows Sophia, a philosophy lecturer, and Sylvain, a burly contractor, as they navigate their whirlwind romance.

Sophia, played by Magalie Lépine Blondeau, moves in affluent intellectual circles in Montreal, enjoying a mentally stimulating but passionless marriage with Xavier. That is until she meets Sylvain, played by Pierre-Yves Cardinal, the rugged contractor hired to renovate her dilapidated cabin retreat. The attraction between them is potent and overwhelming, leaving Sophia to question whether she should walk out of her marriage and start anew with Sylvain.

Is it possible to love someone but also judge them on their grammar and cultural references?

Chokri’s direction is playful, incorporating cheesy visual language reminiscent of a TV romantic comedy. However, beneath the surface lies a sophisticated exploration of the discomfort that arises from the couple’s vastly different backgrounds.

The city of love

As the story unfolds, Sophia and Sylvain’s differences become increasingly apparent. Sophia’s intellectual circles are a far cry from Sylvain’s blue-collar world, leading to some cringe-worthy moments. Yet, despite their differences, the chemistry between them is undeniable.

The film raises important questions about the nature of love and relationships. Can two people from different worlds truly make it work? Or are their differences too great to overcome?

A romantic dinner for two

The Nature of Love is a comedy, but one that leans into the discomfort of the couple’s differences. It’s a refreshing take on the traditional romcom, one that will leave you questioning the very fabric of love and relationships.

The Nature of Love: A film that will leave you feeling warm inside