Spoiled Brats/Pourris gâtés (2021)

Directed by Nicolas Cuche

Written by Nicolas Cuche and Laurent Turner

Music by Alexandre Azaria

Opening in the city of Monaco, we are introduced to an extremely wealthy family in its most predictable structure. The father, a business tycoon, appears somewhat emotionally detached from his children and lenient in his parenting. He has been a widow for 15 years, which is reason enough for this behaviour. His three children, although in their late 20s/30s (not too sure on their exact ages), are spoiled, obnoxious and entitled. One is a party animal full of ‘brilliant’ new ideas, his ideas are exactly what you would expect from someone who has never faced a ‘real’ problem in his life nor worked for anything. The other son is a care-free, esoteric type, who again has never worked, yet feels some connection to the earth which provides in plenty for him. Finally, of course, we have the shopping-addicted daughter, who is demanding and rude to staff.

The father realises his children’s desperate need to be brought back to reality. Scheming a plan to do exactly this, he fakes a police raid and takes them all into ‘hiding’.  The plot was very straightforward which is sometimes nice for a relaxing (thoughtless) evening.  I will say it did have a lot of funny and sometimes, unexpected moments. I enjoyed the simple humour and chaotic family dynamics. The resolution was non-existent. In this way the film was not so predictable, I thought the siblings would come to some sort of realisation and verbally announce their gratitude for their father - they did not. The adult children also did not seem to come to a grand realisation of their privilege or their entitlement either, there was a slow build up that plateaued. I suppose when you have all the resources at hand, there is no need to morally evolve.

Enjoyment: 6/10

Plotline: 3/10

Cinematic masterpiece? No.