Tired of all the sequels or three-quels this summer? Here is a movie that
not only gives the viewer a breath of fresh air, but 18. Paris, je t’aime
(translated: Paris, I love you) is a movie in 18 segments directed by 18
different directors from around the world. American favorites like the
Coen brothers, Wes Craven, Alexander Payne, and Gus Van Sant participated
as well as internationals like Alfonso Cuaron and Gerard Depardieu.

The stories included nurses, mimes, American tourists, failed actors,
wannabe lovers and many more. With every new segment you get a new reason to fall in love with Paris, even if you have never been there before. If
the city and the directors are unfamiliar to you, there are some familiar
faces throughout the movie. Steve Buscemi shows up in the Coen brothers’
segment and actors like Juliette Binoche, Natalie Portman, and Maggie
Gyllenhaal give their American touch to the international cast.

Every segment captures the “City of Love” in a few minutes in a unique,
simplified way. The movie delivers 18 tiny films, full of character and
story, within only a few mintues. Paris, je t’aime allows one to taste and
digest the many great, and not-so-great, things about Paris. Their is a
variety within this film and the numerous story lines are welcomed, unlike
some other summer movies this year. While it may seem that it will be
tough to focus on new characters every four minutes, but the city of Paris
is the main character and the rest are just supporting cast. All this
variety and flavor is the exact opposite of all the over-priced, over-hyped
blockbusters rolling out their second or third installments of their cash
cows this summer. For a breather and a always-welcomed taste of Paris,
skip the multiplex this weekend.