Movie spotlight
Past and Present
This is an intriguing avant-garde look at what motivates the leisurely classes in Portugal, for better or worse, by director Manoel de Oliveira. Set in a spacious country home peopled with a wide-ranging cast of characters, the drama begins as the friends of a widow come to console her on the loss of her husband. But at one point, the widow goes upstairs, encounters her husband, and is faced with his accusations about the past. This event and others provide the means of revealing the petty, self-serving, egocentric, and romantic pursuits of the melange of people in the house. - Eleanor Mannikka, Rovi
Insights
Plot Summary
A wealthy industrialist is tormented by memories of his past and his complex relationships, particularly with his wife and the ghost of his deceased son. As his grip on reality loosens, he grapples with guilt, regret, and the elusive nature of time itself. The film delves into themes of memory, love, and the lingering impact of historical events.
Critical Reception
Past and Present (original title: 'Stavisky...') received mixed to positive reviews upon its release. Critics generally praised Alain Resnais's distinctive directorial style and the performances, particularly Michel Piccoli's portrayal of the enigmatic titular character. However, some found the narrative complex and dense, leading to a polarized reception.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its sophisticated direction and thematic depth.
Michel Piccoli's performance as the central figure was a standout.
Some viewers found the intricate plot and non-linear structure challenging to follow.
Google audience: Audience reception on Google is not readily available, but historical reviews suggest appreciation for its artistic merit, though it was considered a demanding film.
Fun Fact
The film's original French title, 'Stavisky...', refers to the real-life Alexandre Stavisky, a French swindler whose fraudulent activities caused a major political scandal in France in 1934, an event that forms the historical backdrop of the film.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources