Themes: Assumed Identities, Opposites Attract, Schemes and Ruses
Main Cast: William Hurt, Juliette Binoche, Paul Guilfoyle, Stephanie Buttle, Richard Jenkins
Release Year: 1996
Country: DE/BE/FR
Run Time: 109 minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Plot
This is a romantic comedy with an analytical edge from noted Belgian director Chantal Akerman. Set in New York, the fun begins when freewheeling French dancer Beatrice and stodgy psychoanalyst Henry Harriston agree to exchange apartments. He will live in her bohemian Paris flat and she in his upscale, neat-as-a-pin Manhattan abode. The two have never met when they change places. Poor frazzled Henry is hoping that some quiet time in Paris will provide him with some badly needed cultural enrichment and relaxation from the demands of his wealthy clients. Unfortunately there is no rest, as he is constantly assailed by Beatrice's numerous suitors. Beatrice also deals with an onslaught of Henry's needy patients. Poor Henry can no longer stand being away and so quietly returns home. He notices a stream of patients coming from his home and they look unusually happy and well-adjusted. Even his dog looks happier. Wanting to learn her secret, Henry masquerades as a one of his own patients. It is not long before romantic sparks begin to fly. ~ Sandra Brennan, All Movie Guide
A Couch in New York (French: Un divan à New York) is a 1996 film about an anonymous exchange of apartments between a successful New Yorkpsychoanalyst and a young woman from Paris. It was directed by Chantal Akerman.
