The Dinner Game

During a recurring gathering many friends call Idiots' Day, Pierre Brochant and his circle try to outdo each other by bringing along the most ridiculous guest. The person who delivers the most spectacular fool wins a small prize. Brochant believes he has found a perfect specimen, a world class idiot who will make his rivals tremble with envy. But the supposed mark turns out to be far trickier and luckier than expected, brushing off predictable taunts and turning the tables in unexpected ways. What begins as a light satirical contest slides into pure chaos as a web of misunderstandings, coverups, and escalating mishaps threatens reputations, friendships and the party's fragile equilibrium. The tension builds as jokes give way to consequences.

Directed by Francis Veber, The Dinner Game released in 1998. It adapts Veber's own stage hit for the screen, preserving brisk timing and witty dialogue that defined his collaborations with French stars, led by Jacques Villeret and Thierry Lhermitte. Tonight.

Worldwide box office totaled $78,599,508. Made on a modest budget of about $12.5 million, the film proved surprisingly lucrative and helped bring Veber's humor to a broad international audience globally, strengthening his standing in both French cinema and broader comedy.

Since its release, The Dinner Game has become a touchstone for witty ensemble comedy in France and beyond. Its premise and timing influenced later farces and fans still cite the film for its sharp social satire. Its influence is evident in contemporary theatrical remakes and TV humor in francophone markets.

Critics praised the tight plotting, crisp dialogue, and strong performances. The film explores appearances versus reality, pretension and kindness under pressure, delivering humor that is both insightful and humane, with characters you root for. Villeret and Lhermitte deliver turns that balance cringe with warmth, while the pacing keeps viewers engaged.