Sept hommes, une femme: A French comedy that's mostly just people acting badly

If you're in the mood for a light, slightly cynical French comedy from way back, you might find something to like in Sept hommes, une femme. It's definitely not for people who need constant action or modern pacing, but if you like watching arrogant men trip over their own greed, this is your movie.

Lucie de Kéradec is the center of the universe here, and she’s got a pretty sharp idea. She invites seven suitors to her mansion and tells them she’s broke. It’s a classic trap, and honestly, the way they scramble when they think the money is gone is pretty funny.

It reminds me a bit of the social maneuvering you see in something like The Three Must-Get-Theres, though the tone here is much more grounded in drawing-room drama. You really get to see the "inner nature" of these guys, which is basically code for showing how shallow they are.

The Suit-Off

Watching these seven men try to act interested once they hear the 'ruined' news is a highlight. One guy in particular—I couldn't help but stare at his mustache—looks like he’s about to faint when he realizes the free dinners might be over. It’s a very specific kind of physical comedy that doesn't rely on falling down.

Then there’s Brémontier. He’s the childhood friend who hung around in the background the whole time. You know exactly where this is going within the first ten minutes, but that doesn't make it any less satisfying when the dust settles.

• The house sets are gorgeous.
• The dialogue is snappy, though it loses steam halfway through.
• The ending is predictable, but it feels earned.

The pacing is a little bit of a slog in the second act. There's a lot of walking in and out of doors, and sometimes you just want them to get to the point. It’s not as tightly constructed as Petit hôtel à louer, which managed to keep the energy up way better.

Honestly? It’s a solid enough way to spend a rainy afternoon. Don't expect a masterpiece, just enjoy the petty drama. 🍷