Review of Au Hasard Balthazar (1966) by Amraj D — 14 Sep 2010
Cruelty runs through the movie, as a helpless donkey suffers at the hands of certain humans whose aggressive tendencies become apparent once under the influence of alcohol. However, the donkey is not the only being in the movie to suffer, as Marie, the first owner of Balthazar also leads a pretty sorrowful life.
The gloomy atmosphere is created superbly and the musical score is chilling but minimal. The final image is striking as the donkey's desolate existence hits the viewer and leaves the viewer with the thought of their own purpose in life and whether suffering is essential before we reach our final rest.
Marie could at least choose her actions but the donkey was subject to cruelty with little power to challenge, which questions concept of power breeding evilness. A very sad movie that provides little hope, but could this be a pure reflection of many lives that people lead in the world?
This review of Au Hasard Balthazar (1966) was written by Amraj D on 14 Sep 2010.
Au Hasard Balthazar has generally received very positive reviews.
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