(Translated from the original French script)
"My true disability is not having to be in a wheelchair. It’s having to be without her."
Early scenes highlight the grueling, visceral reality of Philippe's condition. Driss adapts quickly, trading sterile medical protocols for a more lively, unorthodox lifestyle.
: 4.5/5 stars
"The Intouchables" is a French comedy-drama film released in 2011, which tells the story of an unlikely friendship between a wealthy quadriplegic and his caregiver. The film, directed by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano, is based on the true story of Philippe Pozzo di Borgo and his caregiver, Driss Bassiry. The script, written by Philippe Pozzo di Borgo and Eric Toledano, masterfully weaves a narrative that challenges societal norms and stereotypes, while showcasing the transformative power of human connection. The Intouchables Script Pdf
Ensure you are downloading the script from a platform that provides it strictly for educational, non-commercial purposes, respecting the copyright of the writers and production companies (Gaumont, Quad Productions). Conclusion
: The official screenplay was published in book form, Intouchables: Le script du film , which is often listed on platforms like Goodreads .
European script formatting sometimes varies slightly from standard Hollywood scripts, but the core scene headings (EXT/INT), action lines, and dialogue blocks remain universally readable.
One of the most famous sequences in the script is Driss’s initial job interview. Look closely at the formatting: (Translated from the original French script) "My true
The paragliding sequence, where Driss conquers his own fear, symbolizing his willingness to enter Philippe's world just as Philippe has entered his. Act III: The Separation and Resolution
Driss’s family obligations force him to leave his position. The script handles this separation beautifully, showing how both men are fundamentally changed but struggle without each other's presence. Philippe falls into a deep depression under new, overly cautious caretakers. The climax brings them back together, leading to the famous seaside ending where Driss sets Philippe up on a blind date with his epistolary love interest, Eleonore. Key Screenwriting Lessons from the PDF
The Intouchables (2011) stands as one of the most successful and culturally significant films in French cinematic history. Written and directed by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano, this brilliant comedy-drama captivated global audiences with its poignant, humorous, and deeply human portrayal of an unlikely friendship.
If you want to dive deeper into this screenplay, let me know if you would like me to , explain the differences between the original French script and the English translation , or analyze how the American remake ( The Upside ) altered the script structure . Share public link Ensure you are downloading the script from a
The script famously opens in medias res (in the middle of things) with a high-speed car chase through Paris. Driss is driving Philippe in a Maserati, successfully evading the police through a clever ruse. This opening establishes their camaraderie and immediate subverts expectations regarding the dynamics of a disabled person and their caretaker. The narrative then flashes back to show how they arrived at this point. Act I: The Collision of Worlds
The writers make us like him not because he is "good," but because he is . He doesn't pity Philippe. In fact, he treats Philippe with a refreshing lack of filter. The script establishes the dynamic immediately: Philippe needs a caregiver who won't treat him like an invalid; Driss needs a signature.
The script opens in media res (in the middle of the action) with Driss speeding through the streets of Paris at night with Philippe in the passenger seat. They trick the police into giving them an escort to the hospital. This opening establishes two crucial things right away: their deep bond and their shared thrill-seeking nature. Act I: The Clash of Worlds
The rising action tracks the gradual evolution of their bond.