Avenue Montaigne

There is no better time to watch a French film than the day after you’ve booked a ticket to Paris. “Fauteuils d’Orchestra” is a truly delightful film about love, life, and following your dreams – no matter where they take you.

Internationally, the film is known as “Orchestra Seats” or “Avenue Montaigne” is a French comedy-drama that intricately weaves the lives of several characters connected to the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris, centering on Jessica (Cécile de France), a young provincial woman who becomes a waitress at a café frequented by artists and performers.

The ensemble cast delivers compelling performances, with Cécile de France portraying Jessica’s journey of self-discovery and adaptation to the artistic world. Valérie Lemercier shines as Catherine Versen, a seasoned actress grappling with the challenges of aging in the entertainment industry. Albert Dupontel’s portrayal of Jean-François Lefort, a renowned pianist seeking authenticity in his art, adds depth to the narrative. The film also features notable appearances by Sydney Pollack and Laura Morante.

Watching this film, I cannot help but think about all the delightful moments I’ve spent at the Bar de Theatre where much of the action takes. This, combined with a behind the scenes look at the auction world, made for a super rewarding viewer experiences – at least in my case.

For those interested in watching “Fauteuils d’orchestre,” it’s available for streaming on various platforms depending on your region and subscription services.