Posted on Sunday, 6 February 2011

L’ATALANTE (Vigo, 1934) - It can be so strange to watch a movie of which you know next to nothing aside from the fact that it is “highly acclaimed”, and in this case french, and apparently about a boat. It can also be lovely, and even surprising: a love story that starts with a marriage rather than ending with it, and which shows that the words “happily ever after” are simplistic at best. Even the best relationships are not completely devoid of tension and conflict, and when he (Jean) is overly jealous and she (Juliette) is longing for adventure, it’s a wonder it works even a little. Still: the small, romantic moments make sure you never wonder why they got together, and make sure the film is never bitter or hopeless.

L’ATALANTE (Vigo, 1934) - It can be so strange to watch a movie of which you know next to nothing aside from the fact that it is “highly acclaimed”, and in this case french, and apparently about a boat. It can also be lovely, and even surprising: a love story that starts with a marriage rather than ending with it, and which shows that the words “happily ever after” are simplistic at best. Even the best relationships are not completely devoid of tension and conflict, and when he (Jean) is overly jealous and she (Juliette) is longing for adventure, it’s a wonder it works even a little. Still: the small, romantic moments make sure you never wonder why they got together, and make sure the film is never bitter or hopeless.

Notes