

La Collectionneuse
A bombastic, womanizing art dealer and his painter friend go to a seventeenth-century villa on the Riviera for a relaxing summer getaway. But their idyll is disturbed by the presence of the bohemian Haydée, accused of being a “collector” of men.
Insights
Plot Summary
Adrien, a Parisian art dealer, retreats to a villa on the French Riviera for the summer to escape his demanding clients and enjoy a period of sensual idleness. His plans are disrupted by the arrival of Haydée, a free-spirited young woman whose provocative behavior and casual promiscuity challenge Adrien's rigid notions of love and possession. As Adrien becomes increasingly obsessed with controlling Haydée, his desires escalate into a complex game of manipulation and jealousy, set against the backdrop of a sun-drenched, idyllic landscape.
Critical Reception
La Collectionneuse was critically acclaimed for its intellectual depth, philosophical exploration of desire, and Rohmer's signature minimalist style. It was praised for its frank portrayal of sexuality and its examination of possessiveness within relationships. The film solidified Rohmer's reputation as a master of observational cinema and a keen observer of human psychology.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its witty dialogue and philosophical insights into desire and possession.
- Rohmer's distinctive observational style and unhurried pacing are highlighted as strengths.
- The film is noted for its frank exploration of sexual freedom and jealousy in a summer setting.
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Awards & Accolades
Silver Bear for a Special Artistic Contribution at the 17th Berlin International Film Festival (1967).
Fun Fact
The film was shot in an actual villa on the French coast, and much of the dialogue was improvised by the actors, allowing for a naturalistic and spontaneous feel.
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