I’m going to be up front about this. I don’t really like french films - or at least my experience with them has been less than extraordinary (except for a few). What is it about cinéma français that is so unsatisfying to me? I’m not completely sure, but I’m going to say that the ones that I have disliked have all been very rather slow on the screen. A lot of nothing seems to take place in these films, and what’s worse is that the US trailers for these flicks make them out to be more active and interesting. This isn’t to say that ALL french film is bad - I do know I like one french director - but on the whole, I haven’t enjoyed many of the french movies I have taken chances with. I’m going to end this general rant, and we’ll take a closer look at the offenders.
Case 1: With a Friend like Harry (imdb)
To me, french thrillers aren’t THAT thrilling. I saw this flick a few years back in hopes of creeping myself out. Instead, I found myself bored to death rather than scared to death. Sure it has its moments of creepiness, but I was largely disappointed and just found the movie to be dull. Harry ain’t that scary.
Case 2: Swimming Pool (imdb)
Around the time I was looking into Harry, I rented Swimming Pool. I think my disappointment came mainly from my expectation of the film. While the US trailer made it out to be a suspenseful non-stop thriller, the flick was again very slow paced and not-so-thrilling. I wanted to be excited and scared, but Swimming Pool is a film that takes its time and rewards close viewing. In Swimming Pool, things just sort of happen, and I didn’t really get it (apparently it’s interpretive) then. The film had some mystery elements that clue you into what’s actually going on, leading you toward conclusion. In the end, you have to figure this one out yourself; the director doesn’t tell you the answer though his hints are everywhere. I think I’ll revisit this movie someday, and my opinion will likely change for the better. Just remember, the US trailer is a bit deceptive.
Next time: more on cinéma français (and I’ll reveal the french director I do like)
February 22nd, 2007 at 5:29 pm
I remember these movies… and how upset we were after watching them. The worst part has still got to be in Swimming Pool though, when we saw full frontal middle-aged nudity.