This crackling, uproarious, urban farce playfully advances the notion that idiocy is far superior to arrogance. Adapted from a popular stage play, the film’s plot hinges on a series of increasingly ridiculous mishaps (a back injury, ill-advised phone calls) in which the well-meaning Pignon — a lonely obsessive who crafts matchstick models of famous monuments — inadvertently makes Pierre’s personal affairs hellishly complex. Diminutive French actor Villeret, who acted the part on the stage, is an endearing boob, playing beautifully off Lhermitte’s handsome, patronizing cad. Hilarious and fun, “The Dinner Game” is an irresistible ode to the dimwit in all of us.
