The manner to adapt the novel of Daniel Pennac is far to be easy. it is one of the basic certitudes for the reader.but, surprising, Nicolas Barry does more than a decent job. explanation - the right cast more than the right script. and, not ignoring the admirable effort of Raphael Personnaz and the children, two names are pillars of this film. first - Emir Kusturica. second - Isabelle Huppert. because the film, remembering Charlot sketches, has the chance, for this names, to be for viewer, more than a chaotic/nice/charming comedy but a real interesting portrait of contemporary society.

After reading the 'professional' reviews of this film, I did not expect to find it very good. And in fact, the plot is really not of much interest, but the entire cast -- adults and children -- form a really pleasant ensemble and I would happily move in with this family. The cartoon-like treatment of a lot of the plot elements totally suits the story. Even though there are two deadly explosions in the movie, they are not dwelled upon, and the resulting police investigation is comical rather than sinister.I left the cinema in a good mood because 'Au bonheur des ogres' made the world seem like a happier place than it is. It was also very nice to see Isabelle Huppert in a surprise appearance.