Bitter Greens
Bitter Greens

Movie spotlight

Bitter Greens

1965
Movie
90 min
Mandarin

Mother Feng and her family struggle to live before and during the Japanese invasion of China.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Director: Jacques RivetteGenres: Drama, Mystery

Plot Summary

In 19th-century Paris, a courtesan becomes entangled in a complex web of love, betrayal, and obsession. Her life unravels as she navigates the treacherous social circles of the elite, all while a mysterious figure watches her every move. The narrative explores themes of identity, illusion, and the destructive nature of desire.

Critical Reception

Bitter Greens was a challenging and ambitious film that received mixed reviews upon its release. While some critics praised its artistic vision and intricate storytelling, others found its length and ambiguous narrative to be demanding. Over time, it has been recognized as a significant work within Rivette's filmography, appreciated for its unique atmosphere and exploration of psychological depth.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its atmospheric visuals and psychological complexity.

  • Criticized for its lengthy runtime and demanding narrative structure.

  • Seen as a key, albeit demanding, entry in Jacques Rivette's filmography.

Google audience: Audience reception is not widely documented, but general consensus points to a film that divides viewers, appealing to those who appreciate art-house cinema and complex narratives.

Fun Fact

The film was shot over an extended period, with director Jacques Rivette often improvising scenes and dialogue, contributing to its unconventional narrative flow.

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