Chinese Puzzle

This trilogy by Cedric Klapisch gets a 9+ from me.  In order to get the most out of it, follow the following steps:

Step One: Rent L'Auberge Espagnole the 2002 film about Xavier Rousseau, the 20 something Parisian who goes to Spain to  learn Spanish which will further his financial career.  For one year while he studies Spanish he lives in an apartment with a colorful international group of  20 something male and females.  He leaves the love of his life, Martine, back in Paris who he eventually breaks up with.

Step Two:  Rent Russian Dolls the 2005 film that continues the exploits of Xavier and the now almost 30 group from L'Auberge Espagnole.  Xavier is smitten with Wendy from that group and is wooing her even though he continues his friendship with now divorced Martine.

Step Three:  Chinese Puzzle (now in theaters) is a must see especially if you have seen the previous two.  Xavier is now almost40 and newly divorced from Wendy and is pursuing a writing career.  He follows his wife and two kids to the Big Apple to start over.  Yes the characters from the previous two movies show up here too.   All three movies are among my favorites.  Chinese Puzzle is the best of the lot and you should not miss it.  Stars:  Romain Duris, Audrey Tautou, Cecile DeFranco , Kelly Reily.