Live Like Amélie

Audrey Tautou is Amélie.

I’ve written before about how much I love the film Amélie (2001). It’s my go-to film for whenever I’m feeling down or just need a jolt of happiness. It’s influenced my décor (heavy on red), confirmed for me that bobbed hair is best, and made me dream of living in Paris.

This week a friend of mine forwarded to me a BuzzFeed piece called “22 Ways to Turn Your Life Into Amélie’s Life.” “Savor the little details in life,” “be sure to listen to the people who know you best,” and “invest in a giant red patterned umbrella” are just three ways the author says you can live more like Amélie. It was perfect timing. Recently I’ve been feeling a bit worn out and could do with some Amélie reminders on how to live life. For starters, this weekend I think I'll go in search of the perfect crème brûlée so I can crack the sugar crust with my spoon and at the movies I'll be sure to turn around and look at the people in the dark.

To read all 22 ways, visit here.  

Day 3: A Film That Makes You Happy

Audrey Tautou is Amélie.

Day 3 of the 31 Day Film Challenge: A film that makes you happy.

Whimsical and romantic, lovely and sweet, Jean-Pierre Jeunet's Amélie (2001) is one film that always makes me happy. The story of shy little Amélie who lives alone with just her fantastical thoughts until the discovery of a hidden treasure leads her to help others and find love along the way never fails to bring a smile to my face. Somehow things always feel better after a viewing.

I've written before about my introduction to the film. I had had a terrible week, culminating with my flat being broken into, when I received a call from the French Consulate in Boston inviting me to a special preview screening. The film completely changed my mood and removed the dark cloud that seemed to be hanging over my head. When I moved into a nicer flat later that summer I made a point of going and seeing Amelie at the Somerville Theatre my first night—the perfect way to begin life in a new neighbourhood. Amélie, you'll always be my feel-good film.

For more about the 31 Day Film Challenge, visit here.