Alibi.com

2017 6.5 1h 30m
Alibi.com

Movie Overview & Analysis

Alibi.com wants to be a fun romp through the world of deception and lies, but it often feels more like a series of missed opportunities. While the premise is promising, the execution leaves much to be desired.

Film Director: Philippe Lacheau
Duration: 90 min
Genre: Comedy, Family
Year: 2017

Not Quite Worth the Investment

Alibi.com has its share of laughs and a likable cast, but ultimately, it seems to be stuck in the same old comedic tropes without fully delivering on its potential. While it’s not a complete waste of time, it certainly doesn’t leave a lasting impression.

6.5/10

Film DNA

The scores indicate that while Alibi.com has entertaining moments and a decent visual style, it lacks depth and emotional resonance. Its originality is average, making it more of a casual viewing experience.

Pros

  • Engaging cast with strong comedic moments
  • Bright visuals and fun scenarios

Cons

  • Weak character development
  • Inconsistent pacing and editing

Casual Comedy Fans Only

Alibi.com is likely to appeal to fans of French comedy who appreciate light-hearted fun with a twist of absurdity. However, those looking for depth or a sophisticated narrative will probably feel disappointed. The humor is very situational and can come off as juvenile, so if you have a taste for more refined comedy, this film might not hit the mark. It’s perfect for a casual watch, but serious cinephiles or those seeking substantial storytelling will likely walk away unsatisfied.

A Business of Lies

Gregory Van Huffel runs Alibi.com, a startup that specializes in creating elaborate alibis for clients. While teamed up with his friends Augustin and Mehdi, they get caught up in increasingly absurd schemes that often border on ridiculous. The narrative takes a turn when Greg meets Flo, a woman who despises dishonesty, forcing him to keep his true profession a secret. The comedy unfolds as they juggle personal lives with their increasingly convoluted business, only to realize that their biggest challenge is being honest with themselves.

Performances with Missed Potential

Philippe Lacheau delivers a decent performance as the charming yet conflicted Greg, but his character often feels thinly written. Élodie Fontan shines as Flo, injecting some much-needed energy into the film, but her character also suffers from a lack of depth. Supporting characters like Augustin and Mehdi, played by Julien Arruti and Tarek Boudali, respectively, deliver adequate comic relief, though their roles sometimes lack development. Ultimately, while there are glimpses of strong performances, many characters feel underutilized, leaving a sense of untapped potential in the cast.

Vibrant Yet Inconsistent

Philippe Lacheau, who also directs, has a knack for creating visually engaging scenarios, but the pacing of Alibi.com can be erratic. Some scenes feel drawn out while others rush to deliver punchlines. The use of vibrant colors and dynamic camera work works well to keep the tone lighthearted, but the editing suffers from inconsistency. Certain comedic moments don’t land due to awkward cuts, which disrupts the flow. A more coherent direction could have elevated the film’s humor and made it feel less haphazard.

Laughter Mixed with Fatigue

Watching Alibi.com can be a mixed bag. There are moments of genuine laughter, primarily stemming from the absurd situations the characters find themselves in. However, the film often drags during its slower scenes, which interrupts the comedic momentum. The romantic subplot between Greg and Flo feels tacked on at times, making emotional stakes feel low. By the time the film reaches its conclusion, you might find yourself more fatigued than entertained, wishing it had maintained a tighter pace and sharper focus on its comedic elements.

Watch if you liked: The Alibi, Murder Mystery