Recently I saw this movie for the second time; the first time was over ten years ago. Vaguely I remembered that it made quite an impression, just like all the early Godard movies (which, in those days, were fortunately broadcast by the German tv). Well, to be short: this movie is absolutely stunning, fantastic, sublime, smashing, et cetera. This is film just like film should be: not a stupid story told in a boring matter - like most movies do - but downright art, excuse me, ART. There is a wonderful co-operation between director, photography, actors, and the scenery of France, Paris in particular. Jean-Paul Belmondo has never been a truly great actor; after playing in some early Godards he appeared mainly in quite bad Hollywood-style French thrillers. But somehow he seems to be the right man in the right place. Jean Seberg is not only unbelievably beautiful but also the absolute star of the movie (at least on the screen). She is just perfect in her role. And last but not least: the soundtrack by French jazz star Martial Solal is completely spot on. There is clear synergy between the restless photography, the restless music and of course the restless characters of the protagonists.
This movie cannot be missed. It belongs in a league with for example Bertolucci's Il Conformista, Bunuel's Belle de Jour, Godard's own Le Mépris (completely different by the way). More than that: it was an important step in creating an entirely new way of making and assessing films. In other words: one of the - if not THE - best and important movies ever made.
This movie cannot be missed. It belongs in a league with for example Bertolucci's Il Conformista, Bunuel's Belle de Jour, Godard's own Le Mépris (completely different by the way). More than that: it was an important step in creating an entirely new way of making and assessing films. In other words: one of the - if not THE - best and important movies ever made.