Far from Vietnam
Far from Vietnam

Movie spotlight

Far from Vietnam

1967
Movie
116 min
French

In seven different parts, Godard, Ivens, Klein, Lelouch, Marker, Resnais, and Varda show their sympathy for the North-Vietnamese army during the Vietnam War.

Insights

IMDb7.4/10
Director: Jean-Luc Godard, Joris Ivens, William Klein, Claude Lelouch, Agnès Varda, Chris MarkerGenres: Documentary, War

Plot Summary

A collective documentary created by a group of prominent French filmmakers, Far from Vietnam offers a powerful and multi-faceted look at the Vietnam War. Through a series of essays, interviews, and observational footage, the film explores the political, social, and human impact of the conflict from various perspectives. It features direct addresses from intellectuals and artists, alongside stark imagery of the war's realities, aiming to provoke thought and anti-war sentiment.

Critical Reception

Far from Vietnam was a significant and controversial film upon its release, lauded by many for its artistic innovation and courageous anti-war stance. Critics praised its ambitious collective approach and the powerful statements made by its directors. However, its fragmented structure and overtly political message also divided audiences and some reviewers, with its raw depiction of war and criticism of American involvement being particularly contentious.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its bold artistic collaboration and potent anti-war message.

  • Commended for its intellectual engagement with the complexities of the Vietnam War.

  • Acknowledged for its experimental and fragmented documentary style.

Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's historical significance as a collective statement against the war and appreciate its challenging artistic approach, though some find its structure less accessible.

Fun Fact

The film was conceived as a direct response to the escalating U.S. involvement in Vietnam, with each director contributing a segment that reflected their individual perspectives and styles.

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