“Mirror Effect” by Léonore Confino, a dazzling comedy

Looking pensive, disheveled, in jogging pants and slippers, Théophile (François Vincentelli) smokes in front of the mirror of a bourgeois living room. A few years ago, he was a famous author, but he is lacking inspiration. Encouraged by his publisher, Irène, his wife (Caroline Anglade), and his best friend (Éric Laugérias), urge him to write a new book to return to success.

Is it because he’s the father of twin girls? “Théo” tackles a “little metaphorical tale” about an orphan periwinkle who has lost his shell... Unbeknownst to him at first, his loved ones identify with the characters, namely seafood! Which will cause tumultuous arguments during a dinner.

With The Mirror Effect, Léonore Confino, to whom we owe The Village of the Deaf recently given at the Théâtre du Rond-Point, creates a unique play, mixed with fantasy and the absurd, notably thanks to the music of Pierre Tirmont. The mirror that Théophile bought dates from the 17th century and seems to reflect disturbing things about his wife and his friend.

It sends them back to their neuroses, their fears, their shortcomings and their own desires. Everyone is looking for each other through the crustaceans. The Franco-Swiss author knows human nature and its weaknesses well. The worse those around him are, the better Théophile is. Well, not exactly. He caused a cataclysm with his manuscript and will have to pay the price (we think of Edgar Poe).

Julien Boisselier masterfully depicts these ordinary beings shattered, giving free rein to their fantasies and their misguided ways. In empathy with their characters, the actors are prodigious. For its part, the public is both surprised and delighted. He has already met them, Théophile and his family. A manager by trade, Irene provides for the family's needs, but no longer admires her poet husband. Deliberately caustic, Jeanne seems detached from everything, but suffers in silence. As for her husband, he is entirely devoted to her and tries to take care of the shrimp and shellfish.

Also read: Julien Boisselier in 12 millimeters: a chef on the verge of a nervous breakdown

The lines are uppercuts and encourage the viewer to question the meaning of his life and the time he may have lost by making the wrong choices. But he also laughs a lot. Often yellow and not without ulterior motives. Isn’t that who we’re talking about here? Phew! Decorated with a few drops of lemon, Léonore Confino's dish is delicious. It has the freshness required from the fishmonger and the salty taste of the ocean.

The Mirror Effect, at the Théâtre de L'Œuvre (Paris 9th), until January 13, 2024. Location. : 01 44 53 88 88.