For me Godard is a very complicated subject. Because when someone is considered that important in film history I feel like I can never watch his films objectively, as if I am always starting with the commentary and reviews that I’ve heard before, already in my head. For the same reason, I also feel a bit hesitant while writing my own review on this film. Right now I am trying to make the best use of the Godard series that my local cinema is hosting this month and to take this as an opportunity to watch his films more objectively and to observe the elements of the New Wave.
Most of the reviews I have read or seen about Godard mention how he approaches his films as pieces of art and how he makes the viewer aware that they are not just watching but almost examining these artworks. The one minute silence scene in this film really appealed to me for exactly that reason. It captured that feeling perfectly. It made me aware of the fact that I was sitting in a cinema. I looked around and watched other people’s reactions. I think that is what makes Godard unique. Although it is mentioned in almost every review I still cannot stop myself from writing it; the Louvre scene was absolutely beautiful and clearly embedded itself into cinema history.
Other than that, and somewhat to my surprise, I realised that I actually prefer some of Godard’s films with less consistent plots over this one. Even though this film is not my favourite out of the ones I have seen by him so far, it was still an enjoyable watch where I could clearly see the influence this film had on many modern pieces.
Still, I find the rule-breaking, freer, more experimental style of the French New Wave incredibly appealing. I love seeing artists playing around with their art. I prefer art that reflects the artist’s feelings and spirit rather than perfectionism. However, I can also imagine how quickly this dialogue can become insufferable as well. One really needs to find the fine line I guess.
For me Godard is a very complicated subject. Because when someone is considered that important in film history I feel like I can never watch his films objectively, as if I am always starting with the commentary and reviews that I’ve heard before, already in my head. For the same reason, I also feel a bit hesitant while writing my own review on this film. Right now I am trying to make the best use of the Godard series that my local cinema is hosting this month and to take this as an opportunity to watch his films more objectively and to observe the elements of the New Wave.
Most of the reviews I have read or seen about Godard mention how he approaches his films as pieces of art and how he makes the viewer aware that they are not just watching but almost examining these artworks. The one minute silence scene in this film really appealed to me for exactly that reason. It captured that feeling perfectly. It made me aware of the fact that I was sitting in a cinema. I looked around and watched other people’s reactions. I think that is what makes Godard unique. Although it is mentioned in almost every review I still cannot stop myself from writing it; the Louvre scene was absolutely beautiful and clearly embedded itself into cinema history.
Other than that, and somewhat to my surprise, I realised that I actually prefer some of Godard’s films with less consistent plots over this one. Even though this film is not my favourite out of the ones I have seen by him so far, it was still an enjoyable watch where I could clearly see the influence this film had on many modern pieces.
Still, I find the rule-breaking, freer, more experimental style of the French New Wave incredibly appealing. I love seeing artists playing around with their art. I prefer art that reflects the artist’s feelings and spirit rather than perfectionism. However, I can also imagine how quickly this dialogue can become insufferable as well. One really needs to find the fine line I guess.
