

After a wizard's spell goes awry, 12th-century Gallic knight Godefroy de Papincourt, Count of Montmirail finds himself transported to 1993, along with his dimwitted servant, Jacquouille la Fripouille. Startled and perplexed by modern technology, the duo run amok, destroying cars and causing chaos until they meet Beatrice de Montmirail, an aristocratic descendant of the nobleman, who may be able to help them get back to 1123.
Acting
Christian Clavier's physical comedy as Jacquouille is genuinely legendary.
Production
Authentic 12th-century armor vs. 1993 beige interiors. Perfect contrast.
Writing
Dialogue mines class differences without punching down. Rare balance.

Director
Jean-Marie Poiré
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
France's most successful comedy for decades, it spawned a sequel and a US remake (Just Visiting) that absolutely tanked. Some magic doesn't translate.
Jean Reno trained with actual medieval combat specialists for two months. Then spent the film hitting cars with swords.
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