The Two of Us (French: Le Vieil Homme et l'Enfant, meaning "The Old Man and the Child") is a 1967 French comedy-drama film directed by Claude Berri. Set during the Second World War in occupied France, the film tells the story of Claude, a young Jewish boy whose parents, fearing for his safety, send him to live with an elderly, anti-Semitic peasant couple in the countryside.
The film explores themes of prejudice, tolerance, and the unexpected bonds that can form between people from vastly different backgrounds. While Pépé, the old man, initially spouts anti-Semitic rhetoric and is portrayed as a supporter of Marshal Pétain and the Vichy regime, his genuine affection for Claude grows over time. Claude, in turn, is initially unaware of Pépé's prejudices and simply sees him as a kind and eccentric grandfather figure.
The humor in the film arises from the cultural and generational clashes between Claude and Pépé, as well as the misunderstandings that occur due to Pépé's limited understanding of the war and his preconceived notions about Jewish people. However, the film also contains moments of tenderness and poignancy, highlighting the human capacity for connection even amidst political and social turmoil.
The film stars Michel Simon as Pépé and Alain Cohen as Claude. It was a critical and commercial success, and is considered a classic of French cinema. Its nuanced portrayal of complex characters and its exploration of difficult themes make it a thought-provoking and enduring work.