Valentine Valentine (Jeremy Irons) is an accomplished thief and master of disguise, tricking many a jeweller into handing over their merchandise without the use of unnecessary force or violence.  Valentine’s perfect life however is soon in jeopardy when his health takes a turn and he beings having blackouts and forgetting his past thefts.  Valentine decides to go on a long sea voyage to forget his troubles, but soon finds himself shipwrecked in morocco with his memory condition worsening.  Elsewhere jazz singer Jane Lester (Patricia Kaas) also suffers from a similar memory loss as Valentine, forgetting song lyrics.  She escapes to Morocco – where of course she meets up with Valentine.  The two decide to visit the grave of a healer that promises to rid them of their medical condition…plus a jewel theft at their hotel threatens to stop Valentine from curing his condition…..bored yet? 

And Now Ladies and Gentlemen is a long, languidly paced film, with a plot that is hopelessly convoluted.  Whilst the plot may let them down lead actors Jeremy Irons and Patricia Kaas are very good in their respective roles.  Irons in particular, is very believable as the charming thief, as Valentine he has a natural charm – and it is interesting to see him play something other than an action movie bad guy.  I didn’t really by the attraction between Valentine and Jane despite their shared condition, and I didn’t much care if they made it in the end. 

Whilst the story bores, And Now Ladies And Gentlemen’s soundtrack is without a doubt the standout of the film.  Jane’s occupation as a jazz singer fills the film with love songs that wash over you, making the film a relaxing experience, so relaxed I fell asleep!  I don’t think however, that that is the effect however that director Claude Lelouch was going for.  Needless to say I found myself wrapped up more in the soundtrack than I was in the story – never a good thing for a film – particularly a somewhat epic love story that And Now Ladies And Gentlemen is desperate to be.