THE STORY – A nonagenarian’s gift of millions to a young artist sparks a scandal, leading her daughter to uncover alleged political corruption involving a former president.
THE CAST – Isabelle Huppert, Laurent Lafitte, Marina Foïs & Raphaël Personnaz
THE TEAM – Thierry Klifa (Director/Writer), Jacques Fieschi & Cédric It’sr (Writers)
THE RUNNING TIME – 121
Inspired by the notorious Bettencourt affair, the real-life scandal that captivated France for over a decade, “The Richest Woman in the World” dives into the murky intersection of wealth, influence, and emotional manipulation. The affair centered on Liliane Bettencourt, heiress to the L’Oréal fortune, and her controversial relationship with a much younger artist, which raised questions of undue influence, family betrayal, and political entanglement. Director Thierry Klifa reimagines this tabloid-fueled drama through a fictional lens, focusing on Marianne, a powerful cosmetics mogul whose carefully controlled life is disrupted by the arrival of Pierre-Alain, a flamboyant photographer whose charm and recklessness gradually infiltrate her tightly guarded world.
What starts as a professional encounter quickly turns into something more intimate and disruptive. Pierre-Alain’s biting humor and total disregard for decorum are both jarring and refreshing. His unapologetic nature pierces through the rigid formality of Marianne’s world. While those around her bristle at his influence, she finds in him something she didn’t know she needed: honest connection. This dynamic and the discomfort it generates within her inner circle becomes the film’s emotional crux.
It’s here that Isabelle Huppert shines. Her performance doesn’t immediately draw attention to itself but slowly reveals layers of complexity without revealing much of her inner feelings, a signature move from the acclaimed actress. Huppert’s enigmatic presence plays beautifully against the script’s ambiguity — is Marianne a victim of manipulation or a willing participant in a bond that brings her a long-lost sense of spontaneity? Her subtle shifts in expression and tone leave room for interpretation, making the viewer question the very nature of the “abuse of weakness” at the film’s heart. Matching her is Laurent Lafitte, whose magnetic turn as Pierre-Alain keeps the film’s rhythm sharp and unpredictable.
Directed by Thierry Klifa, the film leans into the prestige-drama aesthetics Netflix has perfected: sleek production, fast-paced storytelling, and a tone that balances melodrama with emotional intrigue. Its glossy surface might evoke the world of tabloids and family dynasties, but the chemistry between Isabelle Huppert and Laurent Lafitte gives it staying power. The script is witty and often biting, the pacing crisp, and the supporting cast, including Marina Foïs, Raphaël Personnaz, and André Marcon, rises to the occasion.
What ultimately makes “The Richest Woman in the World” engaging isn’t just its headline-grabbing inspiration but its slick, entertaining execution. The film doesn’t dive too deep into the complexities of power or manipulation, but it offers a playful, well-acted look at a bizarre real-life dynamic. Isabelle Huppert brings her usual poise and quiet magnetism to the role, and her chemistry with Laurent Lafitte adds just enough intrigue to keep things afloat. It’s a sharp, glossy drama that touches on themes of vulnerability and influence but mostly succeeds as a fun, stylish watch.
