Supercondriaque

Supercondriaque poster

Supercondriaque is a 2014 French comedy film directed by Dany Boon. It stars Dany Boon himself alongside Kad Merad, and Alice Pol, featuring a storyline that revolves around health anxiety, also known as hypochondria. The film explores the life of Romain Faubert, a 40-year-old man who has no wife or children and works as a photographer for an online medical dictionary. Romain is a hypochondriac whose life is consumed by his fear of illness and his regular visits to his doctor and only friend, Dr. Dimitri Zvenka, played by Kad Merad. Dr. Zvenka thinks he knows a cure for Romain's hypochondria: helping him find love. However, the quest for love leads to a series of comedic and unexpected events.

Plot

Romain Faubert (Dany Boon) is a man who, despite his lack of a serious medical condition, believes he is seriously ill. His hypochondria presents a significant challenge in his daily life, making him a frequent visitor to his doctor, Dr. Dimitri Zvenka. Dr. Zvenka, who initially tries to help Romain overcome his fears, soon finds himself overwhelmed by Romain's obsessive health concerns. In an attempt to rid himself of this troublesome patient, Dr. Zvenka decides to help Romain find a girlfriend, believing that love might cure his hypochondria. The film follows their humorous and often absurd adventures as they navigate the complexities of love and health.

Cast

• Dany Boon as Romain Faubert
• Kad Merad as Dr. Dimitri Zvenka
• Alice Pol as Anna Zvenka
• Jean-Yves Berteloot
• Judith El Zein
• Marthe Villalonga

Reception

Supercondriaque received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the film for its humor and the performance of its lead actors, particularly Dany Boon and Kad Merad, who had previously collaborated in the hit film Bienvenue chez les Ch'tis. However, others criticized it for its predictable plot and reliance on slapstick comedy. Despite the mixed critical reception, the film was a commercial success in France, attracting millions of viewers and further establishing Dany Boon as a significant figure in French cinema.

Themes

The film delves into the theme of hypochondria, portraying the extreme anxiety and fear that individuals with the condition experience. It also explores the idea of friendship and love as potential remedies for life's challenges, suggesting that personal connections can lead to healing and growth. Furthermore, Supercondriaque touches on the impact of technology and the internet on health anxiety, highlighting how easy access to medical information can exacerbate hypochondriac tendencies.

Production

Directed by Dany Boon, Supercondriaque was produced by Pathé and Les Productions du Ch'timi. The film was shot in various locations, including France and Belgium, and features a blend of comedy and romance. Dany Boon's direction aimed to bring a light-hearted approach to the serious topic of health anxiety, using humor to explore the human condition and the power of companionship.