Last Tango in Paris
Last Tango in Paris

Movie spotlight

Last Tango in Paris

1972
Movie
129 min
Italian

A recently widowed American begins an anonymous sexual relationship with a young Parisian woman.

Insights

IMDb6.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes53%
Metacritic61/100
Google Users83%
Director: Bernardo BertolucciGenres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

An American widower in Paris, Paul, enters into a raw, anonymous sexual relationship with a young Parisian woman, Jeanne, after the suicide of his wife. They agree to meet regularly in a vacant apartment without revealing their identities or personal lives. As their intense connection deepens, the boundaries between their affair and their real lives begin to blur, leading to emotional turmoil and ultimately, tragedy.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'Last Tango in Paris' was met with both critical acclaim and immense controversy, primarily due to its explicit sexual content and unflinching portrayal of a bleak, existential relationship. While lauded for its artistic merit, powerful performances, and bold direction, it also faced censorship and condemnation for its subject matter and specific scenes.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its daring and artistic direction by Bertolucci.

  • Marlon Brando's performance is often cited as a highlight, despite the film's controversial nature.

  • Maria Schneider's raw portrayal of Jeanne was also a significant element of the film's impact.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's powerful and unforgettable performances, particularly from Marlon Brando and Maria Schneider. Many acknowledge its artistic boldness and emotional intensity, while others express discomfort with its explicit themes and tragic narrative.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Actor (Marlon Brando) and Best Director (Bernardo Bertolucci). Also received nominations for Golden Globes and BAFTAs.

Fun Fact

The infamous butter scene was reportedly improvised by Marlon Brando during filming, adding to the raw and spontaneous feel of the encounter.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

"Jeanne" (Maria Schneider) is flat-hunting when she encounters the predatory "Paul" (Marlon Brando) in an empty apartment where he proceeds to rape her. It turns out that he has recently lost his wife to suicide and is completely bereft - b...