Happiness

What a stunning looking film. So much to look for in every frame that passes by. Varda does a brilliant job in subverting this idealistic atmosphere, hiding the themes of patriarchal entitlement and infidelity under the bloom of summer. François, a man that is so thoroughly blinded by his privilege, has an affection that is entirely consumption-based. His "happiness" acts like a parasite that requires the complete depletion and erasure of the women around him. François views his life like a garden—if he adds another "flower," the garden simply becomes more beautiful. He just goes about his business with the same carelessness that a child possesses, believing everything in the garden has been planted just for him. Varda depicts the raw vulnerability of Thérèse’s love—her silent plea to try and win favour with her husband, without knowing that her efforts are not appreciated at all. While there are moments of shock in this film, the most cruel element is that François' actions are common and ordinary. This critique is what makes this film so special and important.