Tonight on TV: Hit Comedy Draws 19 Million Viewers with France’s Favorite Actor & HPI Star!

A wealthy aristocrat confined to a wheelchair after a paragliding accident hires Driss, a young man from the suburbs who has just been released from prison. Initially, their encounter sparks conflict, but as they get to know each other, they gradually bring out the best in one another.

“No Arms, No Chocolate!”

Built on the classic premise of clashing worlds that typically don’t communicate, Eric Toledano and Olivier Nakache have crafted a film that sweeps audiences off their feet, largely due to the charisma of Omar Sy, who plays Driss. A true breakout star of the film, his career was forever changed, catapulting him into leading roles and showcasing his broad acting range.

His line “No arms, no chocolate!” has become one of the most iconic movie quotes of the 21st century.

A Phenomenal Success

The plot is based on the true story of Philippe Pozzo di Borgo, a quadriplegic, and his relationship with his home aide Abdel Yasmin Sellou. Eric Toledano and Olivier Nakache had previously enjoyed a hit with Nos jours heureux (1.47 million viewers) and a slight letdown with Tellement proches, attracting 796,719 viewers.

Intouchables exceeded their wildest dreams by attracting 19.4 million viewers, making it the most profitable French film of the decade. With a profitability rate of 602% according to Le Film Français, and on a budget of about 10 million euros, this French comedy shattered the previous record held by Bienvenue chez les Ch’tis, which had a profitability rate of 565% in its release year.

Tonight on TF1 at 9:10 PM