Chinese Puzzle

The third instalment in a trilogy that started with Pot Luck (2002) and continued with Russian Dolls (2005), Chinese Puzzle reveals what happens when Xavier (Romain Duris) leaves his European comfort zone and moves to New York. Although familiarity with the earlier films will greatly enhance viewer enjoyment, it's not essential to understand this accessible fish-out-of-water tale that finds our hero struggling to get to grips with the New World while juggling commitment to his children, friends and - this being a French film - lovers past and present. Duris is as charming as ever as the flawed but endearing central character, who reconnects with old girlfriend Audrey Tautou and lesbian best friend Cécile de France. Marbled with writer/director Cédric Klapisch's trademark whimsical touches, philosophical musings and flights of fantasy, but still grounded in the muddy loam of relationship drama, this is a warm, lovable movie that celebrates cultural pluralism and people's ability to mature.