Russian Dolls

This sequel to writer-director Cedric Klapisch's highly regarded, humorous coming-of-age story L'Auberge Espagnole takes place five years later and finds its protagonist—aspiring novelist Xavier (Romain Duris)—just as mixed up as ever. He's still writing, but so far his most prestigious credit is a corny soap opera, and his personal life isn't much better: Xavier has many strong women surrounding him, including his friend's sister (Kelly Reilly), his ex-girlfriend (Audrey Tautou), and his lesbian pal (Cecile de France), but he doesn't seem capable of making any lasting romantic connections. Duris plays the 30-year-old writer as an amiable but wishy-washy directionless lump—although with so many interesting women around him, we're led to believe that he must have something on the ball. The location shooting in Paris, London, and St. Petersburg contributes much-needed ambience, but the story's lackadaisical structure, slow pace, and unremarkable central character make this long yet easygoing film a bit of a slog. A strong optional purchase. (E. Hulse)