(June 14, 2007) — Though lacking in originality, Luc Besson’s Angel-a is not your average romantic comedy. The story is shown in black and white with a backdrop of some of the most beautiful views of Paris. The edgy French film which was merely eye candy introduces the viewer to Andre, played by Jamel Debbouze, who is in debt up to his eyeballs and constantly running away from odd and dangerous creditors whose lenient deadlines seem anything but realistic. Tired of an aimless life of lies, Andre finds himself on the edge of a bridge ready to take his life. A look at his surroundings reveals that he is not alone in his act. To his left stands a long and leggy Angela, played by model Rie Rasmussen, who takes the plunge into the water before him. Forgetting his own sorrows, Andre goes to the rescue of the beauty but soon discovers that it is she who will rescue him. She follows him across some of the most beautiful parts of Paris and helps him pay back his creditors, making Andre squirm at some of her decisions. The plot is a familiar one. While trying to make sense of the character’s actions, I couldn’t help but be reminded of watching Preacher’s Wife. The story of angels sitting on clouds, waiting for their turn to help petty humans in need has been used repetitively in Hollywood. Angel-a is a modernized version of this plot with more cursing, sex and illegal deals. Although Angel-a is a story of self-discovery and loving oneself at heart, it does not do a good job at approaching this moral. It did not do justice to the complex emotions felt by Angela’s character and the blunt reveal of plot by the characters didn’t leave much for the reader to interpret or wonder. Some parts of the story don’t even tie in together. However, what makes this movie unforgettable is not the story itself, but the casting and cinematography. I could not imagine a better pair to play Andre and Angela. The oddly paired couple keep the movie humorous. Their comic timing won’t make the audience roll on the floor in tears, but it will defiantly make the viewer grin. Cinematographer Thierry Arbogast’s work keeps the viewer intrigued with jaw dropping views and unparalleled camera angles. Angel-a is currently playing in the Pasadena Laemmle Playhouse 7 Theater and is worth the $11 movie ticket. On the plus side, you’re probably not going to be stuck in a long line or rush to find a good seat, for the movie is not highly publicized. And you will not leave the theater talking about the plot or the acting, but instead how awesome it would be to travel to Paris this summer and go sight seeing.