One thing I know about popular movies right now is that for the most part, they follow a tedious guideline that has been repeated many times before. If I see another “Alvin and the Chipmunks,” commercial or a horror movie about possession by the devil I’m going to lose my mind.

That is why it was a pleasant surprise to stumble upon the independent French film The Intouchables, a fascinating, true story about a wealthy French man, Phillipe, who is paralyzed from  paragliding accident. The plot follows his search for a personal helper who can attend to his needs at all times of the day, but also treat him with respect and dignity.

At the same time, the film follows a young black man named Driss, who lives in a poor neighborhood in Paris. In near poverty, surrounded by drugs, and with a criminal record, Driss’s future seems bleak.

In a bizarre twist of fate, Driss becomes Phillipe’s personal 24-hour helper. The duo, who at first seem like total opposites, develop a hilarious friendship and heartfelt bond that makes the movie one of the best I have seen this year. The film is in French with English subtitles, which I liked. None of the actors are well-known and famous, which I also found refreshing.

I highly recommend you see “The Intouchables” at the Drexel. You won’t be disappointed.

Written by Luke Albers’15