The Script’s Impact
The Intouchables Script: A Masterclass in Storytelling and Social CommentaryThe 2011 French film “The Intouchables” (original title: “Les Intouchables”) took the world by storm, grossing over $380 million worldwide and becoming one of the highest-grossing French films of all time. But what made this film truly remarkable was its script, which told a heartwarming and often hilarious story of an unlikely friendship between a wealthy quadriplegic and his caregiver.
The Intouchables script was inspired by the real-life story of Philippe Pozzo di Borgo, a French aristocrat who became quadriplegic after a skiing accident. Pozzo di Borgo hired a young caregiver named Driss Bassiry, an immigrant from Mali, to care for him. The two men formed an unlikely friendship, which was marked by humor, wit, and a deep affection for one another.
Toledano and Sy, who played the roles of Philippe and Driss in the film, were drawn to this story because of its unique blend of humor and pathos. They saw an opportunity to create a film that would challenge social norms and stereotypes, while also entertaining audiences.
The Intouchables script tackles a range of themes, including class, disability, and the human condition. The film challenges social norms and stereotypes, often in humorous and irreverent ways.