Yes, the film “The Upside,” starring Kevin Hart and Bryan Cranston, is loosely based on a true story. It draws inspiration from the unlikely friendship between French businessman Philippe Pozzo di Borgo, a quadriplegic after a paragliding accident, and his Algerian caretaker, Abdel Sellou.
The Real Story: A Parisian Inspiration
While “The Upside” presents a heartwarming and comedic narrative, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of its real-life inspiration. The relationship between Philippe Pozzo di Borgo and Abdel Sellou, as depicted in Pozzo di Borgo’s memoir, “Le Second Souffle” (A Second Wind), forms the foundation of the film. The 2011 French film “Intouchables” (The Intouchables), was also based on this memoir and is considered a more faithful adaptation than “The Upside.”
The differences between the real-life individuals and their portrayal in “The Upside” are significant and contribute to the film’s fictionalized nature. While the core dynamic of an unlikely friendship between a wealthy quadriplegic and a caretaker from a disadvantaged background remains, the specific personalities, events, and circumstances are altered for dramatic and comedic effect.
Key Differences and Artistic License
The film shifts the setting from Paris to New York City and changes the characters’ names. Furthermore, the film simplifies and streamlines certain aspects of their lives, omitting some of the more complex and challenging realities faced by Pozzo di Borgo and Sellou. The film aims for broader appeal, using humor and emotional moments to resonate with a wider audience, sometimes at the expense of strict factual accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “The Upside” and its True Story
This section answers common questions to provide a deeper understanding of the true story behind “The Upside.”
1. Who is Philippe Pozzo di Borgo?
Philippe Pozzo di Borgo is a French businessman and aristocrat who became a quadriplegic following a paragliding accident in 1993. His memoir, “Le Second Souffle,” details his life after the accident and his unconventional friendship with Abdel Sellou. He is the real-life inspiration for Bryan Cranston’s character in “The Upside.”
2. Who is Abdel Sellou?
Abdel Sellou is an Algerian immigrant who became Philippe Pozzo di Borgo’s caretaker. He was hired despite having little to no experience in caregiving. His unconventional approach to care, characterized by humor and a refusal to treat Pozzo di Borgo with pity, forged a strong and lasting bond between them. He is the real-life inspiration for Kevin Hart’s character in “The Upside.”
3. How accurate is “The Upside” to the real story?
“The Upside” takes considerable artistic liberties with the real story. While the core premise of an unlikely friendship remains, the film simplifies and often dramatizes events. Key details such as the personalities of the characters, their backgrounds, and the specific challenges they faced are altered for entertainment purposes. “Intouchables” is often considered a more accurate representation of the memoir.
4. What are some major differences between the film and the real story?
Significant differences include the setting (Paris vs. New York), the names of the characters, and the degree of dramatization of events. The film also focuses more on comedic elements than the real-life experiences, which included serious struggles with pain, depression, and the complexities of living with a disability.
5. Did Philippe Pozzo di Borgo approve of “The Upside”?
While details about his specific reaction to “The Upside” are scarce, Philippe Pozzo di Borgo has generally expressed a positive view of adaptations of his story. He understands the need for artistic license and appreciates the attention brought to the challenges faced by people with disabilities. However, it’s important to acknowledge the significant differences between the film and his actual experiences.
6. What happened to Philippe Pozzo di Borgo and Abdel Sellou after their time together?
Abdel Sellou eventually left his position as Pozzo di Borgo’s caretaker. He used the money he had earned to start his own business. Philippe Pozzo di Borgo later remarried and had children. They remained in contact and maintained a close friendship.
7. Where can I learn more about the real story?
The best source of information is Philippe Pozzo di Borgo’s memoir, “Le Second Souffle” (A Second Wind). Researching the 2011 French film “Intouchables” also provides a more faithful portrayal of the real-life events. Numerous articles and interviews with Pozzo di Borgo offer further insights.
8. Is “The Upside” a remake of “Intouchables”?
Yes, “The Upside” is a remake of the French film “Intouchables” (2011). Both films are based on Philippe Pozzo di Borgo’s memoir, “Le Second Souffle.” However, “The Upside” is generally considered to be a less nuanced and more commercially-oriented adaptation.
9. What criticisms has “The Upside” faced?
“The Upside” has faced criticism for over-simplifying the complexities of disability and poverty. Some critics argue that the film relies on stereotypes and fails to accurately represent the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The casting choices were also subject to debate, with some questioning the decision to cast Bryan Cranston in the role of a quadriplegic.
10. What is the significance of the title “The Upside”?
The title “The Upside” refers to the positive aspects that can be found even in difficult circumstances. In the film, it highlights the transformative friendship between the two main characters and how they find joy and meaning despite their individual challenges. It underscores the theme of finding opportunities and growth amidst adversity.
11. How did the filmmakers approach the subject of disability?
The filmmakers consulted with disability advocates and experts to ensure a degree of sensitivity and accuracy in their portrayal. However, as with any adaptation, artistic choices were made that may not fully reflect the realities of living with a disability. The film’s focus on humor and emotional connection sometimes overshadows the more complex and challenging aspects of disability.
12. Is the story inspiring despite the inaccuracies?
Despite the liberties taken with the true story, “The Upside” can be viewed as inspiring due to its core message of human connection and overcoming adversity. The film highlights the power of friendship and the importance of looking beyond superficial differences to find common ground. While not entirely accurate, the film can still encourage viewers to appreciate the value of human relationships and the potential for personal growth in challenging circumstances.
Conclusion: Fact vs. Fiction in “The Upside”
“The Upside” is a feel-good film that draws inspiration from a remarkable true story. However, viewers should be aware that the film significantly fictionalizes the experiences of Philippe Pozzo di Borgo and Abdel Sellou. While the film offers an engaging and heartwarming narrative, it’s important to understand the distinction between the on-screen portrayal and the complexities of the real-life events. Exploring the memoir “Le Second Souffle” and the film “Intouchables” offers a richer and more nuanced understanding of this fascinating story of unlikely friendship.