The Valet

On the surface, a wealthy industrialist Pierre Levasseur is photographed in a compromising moment with a glamorous model Elena, which triggers a potential divorce. Rather than admit an affair, he concocts an implausible alibi by claiming the man in the frame is a different person, a mild-mannered valet named François Pignon. To sell the deception, Elena moves into the life and home of this ordinary man, stepping into his world and facing a whirl she didn't plan. The plan hinges on misdirection and public image, turning private humiliation into a farce of mistaken identities, awkward encounters, and social satire. As the lie spirals, the comedy leans on the clash between pomp and restraint, wealth and humility, and the performers' timing.

Released in 2006, The Valet is directed by Francis Veber and stars Gad Elmaleh and Daniel Auteuil. It's Veber's French farce that builds on his signature mismatched pair and social satire, with the story delivering brisk, driven humor and charm.

Worldwide gross stands at about 29.33 million dollars, reflecting solid international interest in Veber's light hearted comedy and the star power of Elmaleh and Auteuil. It performed best in France and other European markets. It resonated with family audiences too.

Fans of Veber's work recognize The Valet as a clear example of the directors craft, blending social observation with pratfalls. The film helped cement Gad Elmaleh's appeal beyond France and demonstrates how class contrasts can fuel accessible, witty satire. Its situation comedy still gets cited in discussions of Veber's career.

Critics offered a mixed reception, praising brisk pacing, practical jokes, and the chemistry between Elmaleh and Auteuil while noting the setup can feel formulaic. Themes include appearances versus reality, wealth versus humility, and the performative nature of public personas that mask private insecurities, vanity, and a longing for acceptance everywhere.