In the world of romantic comedies, it can sometimes feel like the genre follows a set formula, often involving two people from very different worlds who, despite their differences, end up falling in love. It Boy (2013), a charming French film directed by David Moreau, offers a refreshing take on this tried-and-true premise. With its witty humor, engaging characters, and a unique twist on the usual romantic comedy structure, It Boy (2013) quickly becomes an enjoyable cinematic experience that resonates with viewers on multiple levels.

At the heart of It Boy (2013) is Alice Lantins (played by Virginie Efira), a 38-year-old, sophisticated fashion editor who has reached a point in her career where she’s ready to break free of her staid and predictable life. Alice is smart, confident, and certainly attractive, but she is also, like many women in her situation, looking for something more fulfilling. Enter Balthazar Apfel (played by Pierre Niney), a 20-year-old, carefree university student who, by all accounts, seems like a boy in comparison to the worldly Alice. The chemistry between these two characters sets the stage for the film’s engaging plot and creates plenty of opportunities for both comedic and heartfelt moments.

The Premise of It Boy (2013)

It Boy (2013) opens with Alice, who works as a fashion editor at a prestigious magazine, feeling the pressure of her age and her career. In the world of fashion, youth and beauty are prized above all else, and Alice’s position at the magazine is constantly under threat by younger, more glamorous women. As her career begins to stagnate, Alice faces the inevitable crossroads of life, where she’s forced to confront her fear of aging and being left behind in a superficial industry.

In an attempt to reinvigorate her career and make herself relevant again, Alice starts a relationship with Balthazar, a much younger man who, unbeknownst to the people around her, is merely a façade for a more professional strategy. She uses Balthazar’s youth and good looks to make herself appear younger and more vibrant in front of her colleagues, hoping that by doing so, she can secure a high-profile promotion. Of course, as the plot unfolds, Alice and Balthazar begin to develop feelings for each other, which complicates their original arrangement and leads to plenty of comedic and romantic tension.

The dynamic between Alice and Balthazar is one of the film’s greatest strengths. Despite the large age gap between them, their interactions feel natural and believable, with both characters growing and evolving throughout the story. Alice, initially seen as a somewhat uptight and reserved professional, begins to shed her layers of self-doubt and embrace a more carefree attitude, while Balthazar, a young man who initially seems carefree to the point of irresponsibility, learns the importance of responsibility, ambition, and maturity.

The Charm of It Boy (2013)

One of the standout aspects of It Boy (2013) is its charm. The film is filled with lighthearted moments that never feel forced or artificial, making it a delightful watch from start to finish. The script, penned by David Moreau and his team, is witty and sharp, often offering clever dialogue that highlights the contrasting personalities of Alice and Balthazar. The humor is playful, sometimes bordering on silly, but it’s always grounded in the authentic chemistry between the two leads.

Another key element of It Boy (2013) is its portrayal of Parisian life. The film is shot beautifully, capturing the elegance and allure of the French capital in a way that enhances the story. Paris itself becomes a character in the film, as Alice and Balthazar navigate their increasingly complex relationship against the backdrop of iconic landmarks, chic cafes, and fashionable boutiques. The film’s aesthetic is undeniably stylish, and it serves to complement the fashion-forward narrative that lies at the heart of Alice’s character.

Moreover, the film offers a critique of the superficial nature of the fashion industry. While it never feels overly preachy, It Boy (2013) subtly addresses the pressure placed on women to look youthful and attractive in order to succeed professionally. Alice’s initial decision to date a younger man is rooted in a desire to maintain her relevance in a society that prizes youth, but as the film progresses, it becomes clear that her worth is not defined by her age or appearance. In many ways, It Boy (2013) is a love letter to women of all ages, encouraging them to embrace their individuality and pursue happiness on their own terms, rather than conforming to societal expectations.

The Characters: Alice and Balthazar

Alice Lantins is a woman of complexity, portrayed with nuance and depth by Virginie Efira. She is confident in her career but insecure about her personal life, particularly as she confronts the inevitability of aging. Efira’s portrayal of Alice is layered, with the actress successfully balancing the character’s vulnerability and strength. Alice is not just a typical romantic comedy lead; she is a woman who feels pressure from all sides—society, her career, and her own fears about growing older. Efira brings humanity to the role, and her chemistry with Pierre Niney is palpable.

Balthazar, played by Pierre Niney, is the quintessential “It Boy” of the film. He’s young, attractive, and seemingly carefree. Niney’s portrayal of Balthazar is effortlessly charming, making it easy for audiences to understand why Alice would be drawn to him. However, the character is not one-dimensional. As the story unfolds, Balthazar is revealed to be more mature and insightful than he initially appears, adding layers of depth to the character and providing a perfect foil to Alice’s more serious and guarded persona.

Together, Alice and Balthazar make a compelling couple. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the contrast between their ages and life experiences creates a dynamic that drives the film forward. The audience roots for them to succeed both professionally and personally, and their journey is one of self-discovery, growth, and unexpected romance.

The Film’s Theme: Love and Self-Acceptance

At its core, It Boy (2013) is a story about love, both romantic and self-love. Alice’s journey is not just about finding love with a younger man but also about rediscovering her own worth. The film emphasizes that age is just a number and that personal happiness is not defined by societal expectations or the approval of others. Through her relationship with Balthazar, Alice learns to accept herself, flaws and all, and realizes that she can be successful and loved at any stage of life.

The theme of self-acceptance is mirrored in Balthazar’s growth as well. As a young man, he starts off with little direction, but through his relationship with Alice, he begins to take on more responsibility and understand what it means to be an adult. His journey is just as important as Alice’s, and their mutual growth is what makes their relationship so compelling.

The Verdict: Why It Boy (2013) is Worth Watching

It Boy (2013) may follow some familiar romantic comedy tropes, but it does so in a way that feels fresh and engaging. The film’s witty humor, strong performances, and charming storyline make it a delightful watch for fans of the genre. Alice and Balthazar’s journey is one of growth, love, and self-discovery, making the film a heartwarming exploration of relationships and personal fulfillment.

The film is not only a fun and lighthearted romantic comedy but also a poignant reminder that true happiness comes from accepting oneself and embracing life’s possibilities, regardless of age or societal expectations. If you’re looking for a feel-good movie with a strong, relatable female lead and a heartwarming love story, It Boy (2013) is the perfect choice.

Final Thoughts on It Boy (2013)

In conclusion, It Boy (2013) is a romantic comedy that stands out in a crowded genre. With its compelling characters, engaging story, and message of self-love, the film offers much more than just a typical love story. Alice and Balthazar’s journey will resonate with viewers of all ages, making It Boy (2013) a timeless and entertaining film that proves age is just a number when it comes to love.