Cast
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Suzy Falk
as Triplet (voice)
Lina Boudreau
as Triplet (voice)
Betty Bonifassi
as Triplet (voice)
Michèle Caucheteux
as Triplet (voice)
Jean-Claude Donda
as General Gaulle / Sports Commentators / Homeless (voice)
Mari-Lou Gauthier
as Triplet (voice)
Charles Linton
as Additional Voice (voice)
Monica Viegas
as Madame Souza (voice)
Michel Robin
as Adult Champion (voice)
Crew
Director
- Sylvain Chomet
Producer
- Didier Brunner
- Viviane Vanfleteren
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Now I knew that the Tour de France had an element of peril to it, but I'd never have thought anyone would stoop to kidnapping three of the cyclists! Well that's what happens to "Champion" and it's what motivates his loving grandmother "Mme. Souza" and her chunky mutt "Bruno" to come to their rescue. Whilst we know a little of the cunning plan afoot by the felons she must travel to the quaint town of "Belleville" and do her own investigating. Fortunately, there are three old ladies who take a shine to this fish-out-if-water pair and provide them with board, lodgings and maybe just a bit of inspiration for their search. When that leads them to their own local, diminutive, Godfather-figure things really start to hot up and the bullets start to fly! Just what has "Champion" got that they all want? I really enjoined the animation style of this caper. Straight out of the blocks we've got something that wouldn't have looked out of place in "Top Hat" (1935) before the lively jazzy soundtrack provides an amiable conduit for a story that's full of twists and turns and that pays an homage to pretty much the whole gamut of film-noir genres en route to it's denouement. The facials are hugely expressive and the cast of characters - real-life and fictional - presents us with some quirky and engaging comedy drama for eighty minutes. This is good fun, darkly engaging and well worth the watch.
Jan 30, 2025
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Triplets of Belleville examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Sylvain Chomet brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2003, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Triplets of Belleville took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $9.5 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 80 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 106 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 77 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2003, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Triplets of Belleville shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon Movie Film for Theaters, which focuses more on action than character development, The Triplets of Belleville subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Dead Space: Downfall and Marcelo, la mafia y la estafa explore similar territory, The Triplets of Belleville stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: June 11, 2003
- Runtime: 1h 20m
- Budget: $9,500,000
- Revenue: $14,776,760
