The Closet (2001 film)

The Closet (French: Le Placard) is a 2001 French comedy film directed by Francis Veber. The film stars Daniel Auteuil as François Pignon, a timid and unremarkable accountant who is about to be fired from his job at a condom factory. To save his job, a neighbor suggests he spread a rumor that he is gay, hoping to exploit the company's commitment to anti-discrimination.

The premise is that by falsely presenting himself as homosexual, Pignon becomes untouchable at work, and his life unexpectedly improves. People treat him with newfound respect and consideration, and he even becomes the object of desire for his homophobic colleague, Félix Santini (Gérard Depardieu).

The film explores themes of homophobia, prejudice, and the power of perception. It satirizes corporate hypocrisy and the changing social dynamics that force people to confront their own biases. It is also a film about self-discovery and how being perceived differently can lead to unexpected personal growth, albeit based on a false premise. The humor derives from the awkward situations Pignon finds himself in and the reactions of those around him.

The film was a commercial success in France and received generally positive reviews, with critics praising the performances of Auteuil and Depardieu and the film's sharp wit.