The Intouchables Timeline ( Real )

biography
May 14, 1951

Birth of Philippe Pozzo di Borgo

Philippe Pozzo di Borgo, the French businessman and the real-life inspiration for the character Philippe in The Intouchables, was born.

personal_life
1988

Accident Leading to Philippe's Quadriplegia

Philippe Pozzo di Borgo suffered a paragliding accident that left him a quadriplegic, which is the central event that leads to the story in The Intouchables.

biography
Circa 1961

Birth of Abdel Sellou

Abdel Sellou, whose life inspired the character Driss in The Intouchables, was born. He later became Philippe's caregiver.

career
1993

Abdel Sellou Begins Working as Caregiver for Philippe

Abdel Sellou starts working as the caregiver for Philippe Pozzo di Borgo, marking the beginning of their significant relationship.

publication
2001

Publication of Memoir "A Second Wind"

Philippe Pozzo di Borgo publishes his memoir, 'A Second Wind' ('Le Second Souffle'), detailing his life and friendship with Abdel Sellou.

film_release
November 2, 2011

Release of the Film "The Intouchables"

The French film 'The Intouchables' directed by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano is released, portraying the friendship between Philippe and his caregiver Driss, inspired by real events.

cultural_impact
2012

Box Office Success of "The Intouchables"

The Intouchables becomes a major box office success in France and internationally, becoming one of the highest-grossing French films ever.

public_engagement
2012

Philippe Pozzo di Borgo Meets Omar Sy at Film Events

Philippe Pozzo di Borgo meets Omar Sy, the actor who portrayed Driss in the film, at several public events, further popularizing their real-life story.

The Intouchables Timeline ( Fictional )

meeting
Spring 2011

Driss meets Philippe

Driss, a young man from the projects, comes to the mansion to apply as a caregiver for Philippe, a wealthy quadriplegic.

employment_start
Spring 2011

Driss starts working for Philippe

Despite having no experience, Driss is hired to be Philippe's caretaker, beginning their unconventional partnership.

character_development
Summer 2011

Driss learns to care for Philippe

Driss gradually adapts to his role, learning to handle Philippe's needs and routines.

relationship_development
Summer 2011

Philippe and Driss bond over humor and music

They develop a strong friendship, sharing laughter, music, and personal stories, breaking social barriers.

adventure
Late Summer 2011

Paragliding adventure

Philippe takes Driss paragliding, showing trust and sharing an exhilarating experience together.

social
Autumn 2011

Driss brings Philippe to a club

Driss introduces Philippe to nightlife, helping him live more fully despite his disability.

health_event
Autumn 2011

Philippe's health challenges

Philippe faces difficulties with his medical condition, but Driss supports him through these times.

social
Autumn 2011

Driss meets Philippe's social circle

Driss is introduced to Philippe's refined social environment and friends, highlighting their contrasting worlds.

travel
Winter 2011

Philippe and Driss travel to Strasbourg

The friends take a trip to Strasbourg, strengthening their bond through shared experiences outside their usual environment.

support
Winter 2011

Driss brings a new caregiver to Philippe

Driss helps Philippe by involving another caregiver, showing his commitment.

event
Winter 2011

Philippe hosts a charity event

Philippe organizes a gala to raise funds for disabled people, inviting Driss to participate.

relationship_resolution
Spring 2012

Final reconciliation and friendship solidified

Philippe and Driss affirm their friendship, having transformed each other's lives profoundly.