Belmondo wanted to make the film to inspire others who had suffered strokes and was insistent that no effort to hide his condition was made: "It's me without any special effects. I hope to be an example for all. I hope."
This film is a remake of a Vittorio De Sica's movie: Umberto D, made in 1952.
The film was savaged by many European critics on its release, who were particularly critical of Belmondo's decision to return to filmmaking after his stroke in 2001. Le Point headed their review What's Left of Belmondo?, Le Monde were critical of his problems speaking and Le Matin described it as "absolutely despicable... an undignified Calvary that inspires only one embarrassing feeling: pity." Former co-star Arielle Dombasle joined in the criticism, saying "Jean-Paul was always the strong adventurer, an athletic animal. He is not cerebral. People want to see their hero. To see him as an old man who loves his dog is ridiculous." The film went on to flop at the box-office.
Le Matin called for the film to be boycotted because of the star's frail physical condition.