Regardless of the language track, the audio engineering of The Intouchables is superb. *
The Ultimate Guide to Watching "The Intouchables" in English Released in 2011, The Intouchables (originally Intouchables
) became a global sensation, capturing hearts with its witty, poignant portrayal of an unlikely friendship between a wealthy quadriplegic aristocrat and his caretaker from the projects. However, for English-speaking fans, finding the right way to watch this French masterpiece can be a bit of a puzzle. Whether you are looking for an English audio track (dub) or prefer the authenticity of English subtitles
, here is everything you need to know to experience the magic of this film. Is There an Official English Dub?
Yes, an official English audio track exists for the 2011 film, though its availability is highly dependent on your region and platform. Google Play Store: Frequently lists a specific version titled Intouchables (English dubbed) available for purchase or rental in various regions.
Some regions offer a version that includes both original French and English audio
Historically, Netflix has offered the film with an English dub in certain international markets, sometimes even omitting the original French track. The Subtitles vs. Dubbing Debate Many cinephiles argue that watching The Intouchables
with its original French audio and English subtitles is the superior experience.
An English-dubbed version of the 2011 French film The Intouchables is available on platforms like Google Play Movies, while physical media typically features the original French audio with subtitles. For a native English experience, the 2017 American remake, The Upside, stars Bryan Cranston and Kevin Hart. Find the English-dubbed original at Google Play Movies.
The Intouchables stands as one of the most successful French films of all time, capturing the hearts of millions worldwide with its touching story of an unlikely friendship. Directed by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano, the 2011 masterpiece tells the story of Philippe, a wealthy quadriplegic, and Driss, a young man from the projects hired to be his caregiver. While the original French dialogue delivers a masterful blend of humor and emotion, many viewers search for an English audio track to enjoy the movie without reading subtitles.
If you are looking to experience this cinematic gem with an English audio track, here is everything you need to know about its availability, how to find it, and the ongoing debate between dubbing and subtitles. The Search for the English Audio Track
Finding an English dubbed version of The Intouchables can be surprisingly challenging depending on your region and the platform you are using. Because the film relies so heavily on the specific cultural nuances of France, the chemistry between the actors, and the rhythmic delivery of the French language, many purists and distributors prefer to present the film in its native tongue with English subtitles.
However, an English audio track does exist. It was primarily produced for specific international television broadcasts, airline entertainment systems, and certain localized DVD and Blu-ray releases. Where to Find The Intouchables with English Audio
If reading subtitles takes away from your viewing experience, you have a few avenues to explore to find the English audio track: 1. Physical Media (DVD and Blu-ray)
The most reliable way to secure specific audio tracks is often through physical media. When looking at DVD or Blu-ray listings, you must carefully check the "Audio" or "Language" section of the product details.
Region-Specific Releases: Some international editions of the Blu-ray include multiple dubbed language tracks, including English.
Check the Back Cover: Always verify that it explicitly lists "English 5.1" or "English Stereo" under the spoken languages, rather than just under the subtitle options. 2. Digital Purchase and Rental Platforms
Platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu often host various versions of international films.
Read the Fine Print: Digital storefronts are notorious for listing films with only their native audio. Before you click buy or rent, look at the metadata for "Audio Languages."
Look for Multiple Listings: Sometimes, a platform will have two separate listings for the same movie: one that is the original French version with subtitles, and another that is explicitly labeled as the "English Dubbed" version. 3. Major Streaming Services The Intouchables English Audio Track
Streaming giants like Netflix or Hulu rotate their movie catalogs frequently. When they do host The Intouchables, the available audio tracks depend entirely on the licensing agreement they secured. To check if a dubbed version is available on your streaming platform: Play the movie.
Open the Audio & Subtitles menu (usually represented by a speech bubble or settings gear).
Look under the Audio list to see if "English" is an option alongside "French [Original]". Subtitles vs. Dubbing: Which Should You Choose?
If you are on the fence about whether to hunt down the English audio track or simply watch the film in French with English subtitles, consider the pros and cons of both. The Case for the English Audio Track
Visual Freedom: You can focus entirely on the incredible physical acting of François Cluzet (Philippe) and the expressive, energetic performance of Omar Sy (Driss) without your eyes darting to the bottom of the screen.
Multitasking: Dubbed audio allows you to enjoy the film even if you need to look away from the screen occasionally.
Accessibility: For viewers with visual impairments or reading difficulties like dyslexia, a localized audio track is essential to enjoying the film. The Case for the Original French Audio
Authenticity and Emotion: Omar Sy won the César Award for Best Actor for this role. Much of his charm, comedic timing, and emotional depth are tied directly to his vocal delivery in French.
Cultural Nuances: The Intouchables deals heavily with class and cultural divides in modern France. Slang, tone, and vocal inflections often get lost or feel unnatural when translated into spoken English.
The Intended Experience: The directors crafted the film's pacing and soundscape around the native French dialogue. An Alternative: "The Upside"
If you find that tracking down the English audio version of The Intouchables is too difficult, or if you simply prefer a film natively shot in English, you might consider watching its official American remake.
Released in 2017, The Upside stars Kevin Hart and Bryan Cranston in the roles originally played by Omar Sy and François Cluzet. While it follows the same core premise and beats of the true story, it is set in New York City and is performed entirely in English. While critics generally agree that it lacks some of the magic of the French original, it serves as a highly accessible and entertaining alternative for English-speaking audiences.
Whether you choose to seek out the elusive English audio track for the 2011 original, read the subtitles to appreciate the award-winning French performances, or watch the American remake, the heart of this incredible true story remains a must-watch cinematic experience.
While The Intouchables is originally a French-language film, its English audio track—both in the form of a dubbed version and its influence on English-speaking audiences—plays a crucial role in its status as a global phenomenon. The translation and vocal performance of the English audio track must capture the film's delicate balance between sharp humor and poignant drama to maintain the emotional resonance found in the original French performances. Narrative Synergy and Voice Performance
At its core, the film explores the unlikely friendship between Philippe, a wealthy quadriplegic aristocrat, and Driss, a streetwise ex-convict. The English audio track is tasked with translating the cultural nuances and rapid-fire banter that define their bond.
Capturing Chemistry: The "electric chemistry" between François Cluzet and Omar Sy is the film's heartbeat. In the English version, the voice actors must mirror this dynamic, ensuring Driss’s "bluster and bravado" feels authentic rather than caricatured.
Cultural Nuance: The script bridges the gap between affluence and the projects, often through humor that critiques social norms. The English track ensures these themes of mutual respect and human connection transcend language barriers. The Role of Sound and Music
The English audio track does not exist in isolation; it is layered over an incredible soundtrack that serves as a secondary dialogue between the characters.
Musical Exchange: The film uses music—ranging from Vivaldi to Earth, Wind & Fire—to represent the clash and eventual merging of the characters' worlds. Regardless of the language track, the audio engineering
Auditory Delight: Critics note that the film is an "auditory delight," with the music underscoring emotional highs and lows. The English audio track maintains these original scores, ensuring that the transformative power of friendship remains as palpable as in the French version. Universal Accessibility
The availability of an English audio track has allowed the film to challenge stereotypes on a global scale. By removing the subtitle barrier for some viewers, it more directly addresses questions of autonomy and human flourishing in the context of disability. It reinforces the message that life's meaning is found in the richness of relationships, a sentiment that remains "touching and unforgettable" regardless of the language spoken.
While The Intouchables (2011) was originally filmed in French, there are several ways to access English audio or English-language versions of the story: English Dubbed Version
A professional English-dubbed audio track exists and is often available on digital retail platforms. This version replaces the original French dialogue while keeping the background music and sound effects intact.
Availability: You can find the English-dubbed version for purchase or rent on Google Play Movies.
Streaming Note: On platforms like Netflix, audio options are strictly regional. Some regions (like Sri Lanka or Germany) may only offer French or local language tracks without an English dub option. English Remake: "The Upside"
If you prefer a film originally shot in English rather than a dubbed version, the official American remake is titled The Upside (2017).
Cast: Features Bryan Cranston and Kevin Hart in the lead roles.
Context: The Weinstein Company acquired the remake rights specifically to bring the story to English-speaking audiences who may prefer native dialogue over dubbing or subtitles. Soundtrack Highlights
Many viewers searching for "audio" related to this film are looking for its iconic musical score by Ludovico Einaudi.
Key Tracks: The most recognizable pieces include "Una Mattina" and "Fly."
Where to Listen: The complete soundtrack is available on Spotify and YouTube.
While The Intouchables is celebrated for its original French performances, you can experience the film with an English audio track through several official platforms. Whether you prefer the dubbed version for accessibility or are searching for the evocative English-lyric songs from its iconic soundtrack, here is everything you need to know. Watching with English Audio
If you are looking to watch the full movie with an English dubbed track, it is available on several major digital storefronts:
Google Play & YouTube Movies: You can find the Intouchables (English dubbed) version available for rent or purchase [15].
Prime Video: Depending on your region, Prime Video often includes multiple audio tracks, including the English dub, alongside the original French with subtitles [26, 30]. The English Soundtrack Experience
The film’s "audio track" is perhaps most famous for its blend of soulful English-language classics and contemporary classical pieces by Ludovico Einaudi. This soundtrack plays a vital role in bridging the cultural gap between the two main characters. Key English Tracks:
"September" by Earth, Wind & Fire: The high-energy anthem used in the famous birthday dance scene [1, 6].
"Boogie Wonderland" by Earth, Wind & Fire: Another disco staple that defines Driss’s vibrant influence on Philippe’s world [5, 14]. If you are searching for the dubbed version,
"Feeling Good" by Nina Simone: A powerful jazz standard that underscores themes of liberation and new beginnings [5, 6].
"The Ghetto" by George Benson: Adds a smooth, soulful atmosphere to the film's urban segments [1, 4].
"You're Goin' Miss Your Candyman" by Terry Callier: A folk-soul track that highlights the movie's eclectic musical taste [4, 6]. Where to Stream the Audio
You can listen to the full Original Motion Picture Soundtrack on all major music platforms, which includes both the English songs and the piano compositions [1, 8]:
Spotify: Access the The Intouchables Official Playlist [4, 13].
Apple Music: Stream the complete The Intouchables Album [5].
YouTube: Many individual tracks, such as Ludovico Einaudi's "Una Mattina", are available for high-quality listening [18, 25].
The Intouchables (2011) was originally filmed in French, several options exist for viewers seeking an English audio track, though its availability varies significantly by platform and region. Official English Dub Availability
An official English dubbed version was produced for international distribution. However, finding it on major US streaming platforms can be difficult, as many services—like Amazon Prime Video
—primarily offer the film in its original French with English subtitles. Google Play Movies : Frequently lists a specific version titled Intouchables (English dubbed) in various international markets. : Some regional versions of the film on
list English as an available audio track alongside the original French.
: In certain international regions, such as Sri Lanka, users have reported that the film was only available with the English dub, sometimes even lacking the original French track. Google Play Physical Media (Blu-ray/DVD)
Most standard North American Blu-ray releases, such as those reviewed by High Def Digest , feature only the original French DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track with optional English subtitles. High Def Digest Intouchables (English dubbed) - Movies on Google Play
If you are searching for the dubbed version, do not assume it is on every streaming platform. Here is the current status (as of 2024-2025) of where the English audio track lives.
Rental options on YouTube Movies often list the audio languages. Search for "The Intouchables English Dub" specifically. If you rent the standard version, you will likely get French. The price is usually the same, so ensure the selection menu says "English" before purchasing.
The most difficult aspect of the English audio track is the translation of Driss’s background. In the original French, Driss speaks with a distinct accent and uses slang that immediately marks him as an outsider to Philippe’s wealthy world. This linguistic class divide is central to the film's dynamic.
For the English dub, the production secured high-profile voice talent to ensure the characters' chemistry translated for English-speaking audiences.
In the United States, Prime Video sometimes offers two separate listings: the original French version (with subtitles) and a second listing labeled "The Intouchables (English Dubbed)." Look carefully at the audio options before pressing play. If you see "English [Dolby Digital 5.1]," you have found the right track.
Yes, but with caveats.
Unlike anime or major Hollywood blockbusters, foreign arthouse films rarely receive big-budget dubs. However, The Intouchables was so commercially successful globally that an official English dub was produced for specific markets, primarily for airline inflight entertainment and North American television broadcasts.