The Good Life (1964): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1964, The Good Life is a drama film directed by Robert Enrico.

What it’s about. After twenty-seven long months spent in Algeria, Frédéric Simon, a young photographer is determined to forget this time of trouble. Now that the Army has finally discharged him he wants to live the good life. And at first, things go according to his wishes: not only does he marry Sylvie but they are invited by a wealthy man to Monte Carlo, where they spend a dream honeymoon. But back in Paris, hard times await them. Not finding work easily along with having to live in a cramped apartment make Frédéric bitter and unpleasant. When Sylvie becomes pregnant, he slams the door and finds consolation in the arms of Christine, an ex girlfriend, which he soon regrets. At last, the situation improves. Frédéric finds work and starts making money as a fashion photographer. But the good life cannot go on: one morning a policeman knocks at the young couple's door: the country wants Frédéric back in the Army.

Who’s in it. The Good Life stars Frédéric de Pasquale as Frédéric Simon, Josée Steiner as Sylvie Simon, Odile Geoffroy as Kiki and Françoise Giret as Christiane, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 5.9/10, The Good Life has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Good Life page.

If you liked it. Fans of The Good Life tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.