What could come of a simple kiss? That's the question posed by the first two protagonists of writer-director Emmanuel Mouret's relationship comedy. They are nameless strangers who, having met and shared a pleasant evening, now ponder how to say goodbye -- if at all. So, the woman relates a tale of her seemingly happy friends in Paris, whose one embrace drastically affected her life. Most of the elegantly constructed film recounts this story-within-a-story, of Nicolas and Judith and their kiss. Along the way, there are diversions into still more layers of this story-within-a-story, as well as the dramatic ripples sent out through the pair's other relationships. Occasionally, Mouret returns to two strangers for editorializing or related commentary. It's all very French: talky but airy, populated with handsome people in even more attractive settings. It's not particularly naughty -- there's more fretting than bedding -- and thus there is a certain parlor sophistication. Certainly, its conclusions aren't particularly dramatic or revelatory. After all, what is new in the realm of infidelity and failing relationships? The pleasure is in how the inevitable journey is navigated. In French, with subtitles. Starts Fri., June 12. Manor
