The New Toy (2022)

The New Toy has a deceptively simple hook—a man “chosen” like a product—that it turns into a warm, crowd-pleasing fable about dignity, class, and the small ways people rescue each other. Jamel Debbouze makes the premise feel human rather than gimmicky, bringing easy charm and vulnerability to Samy, while Daniel Auteuil plays the icy tycoon with a chill that gives the comedy real bite. The vibe is glossy and big-hearted, balancing department-store spectacle with neighborhood warmth, and it earns its emotional turns without forgetting to be funny. It’s not the sharpest satire you’ll ever see, but if you’re in the mood for a family-friendly dramedy with strong performances and a sincere pulse, it’s an inviting watch.

The New Toy is clearly aiming for a warm, crowd-pleasing fable about class, dignity, and an unlikely bond between a working guy and a spoiled child. The problem is it often feels like a softer, safer retread of the 1976 film, so if you know the original, you may spend the runtime waiting for this version to justify itself and it rarely does. A lot of the side characters are sketched in and then left hanging, which drains the world of texture and makes the emotional beats land with less punch. Still, Jamel Debbouze brings likability and Daniel Auteuil has presence, so if you’re in the mood for a gentle, family-friendly comedy-drama and don’t mind familiar storytelling, it can pass; if you want sharp satire or a remake with a real reason to exist, skip it.