Philippe de Broca's Practice Makes Perfect is a thoroughly charming study of a middle-aged philanderer who is so resourceful that the can even make his character flaws work in his favor. Edouard Choiseul (Jean Rochefort) is a very busy concert pianist who performs, gives classes, and does recording sessions during his nonstop schedule. His mistress (Chaterine Alric) and his long-suffering second wife (Nicole Garcia) contend for his free time. Then there's his first wife (Annie Girardot) who has remarried but still has a special place in his heart.
An engagement takes Edouard to the country home of a lover (Danielle Darrieux) from his student days. He is swept off his feet by her attractive granddaughter (Catherine LePrince) and is soon ready to run off with this teenager. However, his wife's own defection throws him for a loop and he is forced to reconsider. Can a man relive his youth through a look-a-like? Down in the dumps, Edouard moves in with a friend whose son is a brilliant pianist. Through the boy, Edouard finds a fresh reason for rejoicing in life's endless possibilities.
DeBroca's Practice Makes Perfect hums along with just the right combination of humor, pathos, and surprises. The performances by Jean Rochefort and Nicole Garcia are superb.