‘Annette’: This off-kilter musical is (figuratively) off-key

“Annette” (2021) – “So, may we start?” Yes, please do!  Director Leos Carax’s (“Holy Motors” (2012)) film opens inside a recording studio, which could be located anywhere.  The producer speaks French, so one might think that this 139-minute movie-experience could be set in Paris. Au contraire, mon frère.  Ron and Russell Mael (a.k.a. Sparks), six other musicians, a few backup singers, Ann Defrasnoux (Marion Cotillard), and Henry McHenry (Adam Driver) soon march out of the melodious indoor space.  They sing the said quote and reveal that they work in The…