Melvil Poupaud’s portrayal of a coercive control perpetrator is a tour de force in Just The Two of Us (L’Amour et les Forêts).
Nice Guy
“Nice Guy” is a term that denotes a specific male behavioral pattern toward women. A “nice guy” is overtly kind, courteous, and respectful with the implicit expectation of reciprocal romantic- or sexual interest. This facade frequently masks underlying motivations rooted in self-interest and entitlement rather than genuine altruism.
Individuals exhibiting the nice guy complex often adhere to societal norms of masculinity that equate politeness with virtue. However, their actions are frequently driven by a transactional mindset, wherein good behavior is perceived as a currency to be exchanged for affection. When these expectations are not fulfilled, such individuals may experience feelings of resentment, entitlement, or hostility.
It is essential to differentiate between genuine acts of kindness and those performed with ulterior motives. True empathy, respect, and equality form the foundation of healthy interpersonal relationships, while the “nice guy” represents a distortion of these values.