The Midwife

This is a minor French movie but, thanks to its actors, a modestly engaging one.

After sketching the differences between Beatrice and Claire, his script gives the two actresses every incentive to banish any thought of lapsing into stereotype.

Predictability can be forgiven with the luminous talents of Catherine Deneuve and riveting Catherine Frot (Marguerite) as long-estranged women reunited in writer/director Martin Provost's drama.

It takes some time for 'The Midwife' to get there, and when it does, it does so quietly. But with Deneuve and Frot as traveling companions, at least you know the destination will be worth it.