Movie spotlight
Transatlantique
In this French-Portuguese film -- directed by Jacques Rivette's screenplay collaborator Christine Laurent -- French vocalist Laure Constant (Laurence Cote) goes to Montevideo, Uruguay, to see her old lover Colossus (Jose Olivera), but when he's a no-show, she becomes involved with several other men, while listening to advice from some older French women who are costume designers. Shown at the 1997 Locarno Film Festival.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set during World War II, the film follows a group of people trying to escape occupied France via the transatlantic route. They encounter various challenges and moral dilemmas as they navigate the dangers of wartime travel and the uncertainty of their future.
Critical Reception
Transatlantique received a mixed to positive reception, praised for its atmospheric tension and performances, though some critics found its pacing uneven.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its moody atmosphere and depiction of wartime anxiety.
Performances, particularly from the lead cast, were generally well-regarded.
Some found the narrative structure to be somewhat disjointed.
Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce, but those available suggest appreciation for the film's historical setting and dramatic portrayal of escape.
Fun Fact
The film was notably directed by and stars Christophe Lambert, an actor more widely known for his roles in fantasy and action films.
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