DVD Mini Review - Children of Paradise
Marcel Carne's Children of Paradise is considered a film classic. Some even call it the best film ever made. While I wouldn't say that it the best it certainly is a wonderful film.
Carne started making the film in 1943 when France was under Nazi occupation. It is a wonder that he actually made the film at this time but he didn't finish it until 1945. The screenplay, which was nominated for an Oscar, was written by poet Jacques Prevert.
The story is a simple yet timely one. Four men all fall for one woman - the lovely Garance (Arletty). They are all as different as can be. But in the end there is only one that Garance loves. How does this story turn out - what do you think? The truth is that this is a tragic love story (those are the best kinds) with a moral to it. But there are also references to the occupation itself. Just see how these people treat each other. They think nothing of challenging each other to a duel.
The film is beautiful to look at and perfectly captures Paris in the 19th century.
All of the acting is terrific with Jean-Louis Barrault's heartsick mime Baptiste the standout performance.
When the film ended I was a bit wistful. True love is hard to find but if you are lucky enough to find it then you must keep it. The ending says it all. Do yourself and favor and rent this true cinema classic.
Carne started making the film in 1943 when France was under Nazi occupation. It is a wonder that he actually made the film at this time but he didn't finish it until 1945. The screenplay, which was nominated for an Oscar, was written by poet Jacques Prevert.
The story is a simple yet timely one. Four men all fall for one woman - the lovely Garance (Arletty). They are all as different as can be. But in the end there is only one that Garance loves. How does this story turn out - what do you think? The truth is that this is a tragic love story (those are the best kinds) with a moral to it. But there are also references to the occupation itself. Just see how these people treat each other. They think nothing of challenging each other to a duel.
The film is beautiful to look at and perfectly captures Paris in the 19th century.
All of the acting is terrific with Jean-Louis Barrault's heartsick mime Baptiste the standout performance.
When the film ended I was a bit wistful. True love is hard to find but if you are lucky enough to find it then you must keep it. The ending says it all. Do yourself and favor and rent this true cinema classic.
posted by Film Fanatic | 8:06 PM
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