Better than most of the reviews

It's strange how most of the reviews find this film sentimental and somehow far inferior to the first film Jean de Florette. Why? It's plot is more cohesive and in some ways less cliched. The acting is far better as an ensemble than the first film (apart from missing the sublime Gerard). In particular, Montand and Auteuil are far superior in this one. It remains dark and tough. My only agreement with the reviewers is that towards the end it gets a little too neat and tidy. However, these are minor failings in what is a cinematic masterpiece. Rent both film's for a Pagnol weekend and see them as a whole and you'll feel moved in a way that only great cinema can move you...