Movie spotlight
L'après-Midi Près Du Tombeau De Falconetti
On a sunny afternoon, an old man sits in the shade of the trees in Montmartre Cemetery in Paris, at the edge of the grave of the great actress Falconetti (1892-1946). She achieved unforgettable recognition as Joan of Arc in Carl Theodor Dreyer's 1928 silent film The Passion of Joan of Arc. She later took her own life in Buenos Aires. Now the old man, Jean-Marie Straub, plays with his cane and keeps her company. Until he is disturbed.
Insights
Plot Summary
This short film by Jean-Luc Godard presents a contemplative and philosophical exploration of memory, art, and existence. It features Godard himself, alongside Anne-Marie Miéville, engaging in dialogue and reflection within a visually rich environment. The narrative is abstract, focusing on the interplay of images, sound, and ideas rather than a conventional plot.
Critical Reception
As a short film by a highly influential director, 'L'après-Midi Près Du Tombeau De Falconetti' is primarily of interest to cinephiles and scholars of Godard's work. It is often discussed in the context of his later, more experimental period. Critical reception tends to focus on its intellectual depth and unique cinematic language, though its abstract nature may not appeal to a mainstream audience.
What Reviewers Say
A characteristic example of Godard's later, more introspective filmmaking.
Offers a dense, philosophical meditation on art and life.
Visually striking, though demanding for the viewer.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific short film is not widely available.
Fun Fact
The film's title is a reference to the famous 'Joan of Arc' film by Carl Theodor Dreyer, in which Falconetti played the titular role, and reflects Godard's ongoing engagement with film history.
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