Review of Belle de Jour (1967) by Ibrahim E — 06 Nov 2009
Even though I am a cinephile, I regret to say that this was the first Luis Buñuel film I watched. And what a film it was. Made in 1967, this is probably the best film based on eroticism ever made. Catherine Deneuve creates a brilliant character which is growingly seductive and sexy while she seems to ooze elegance and innocence at the same time.
How a film which doesn't show its actors even half as naked and in action as the actors in films nowadays can be so toweringly erotic is a grand achievement and it all belongs to the brilliant direction of Luis Buñuel.
He understands perfectly that eroticism is created primarily in our minds, more than in our actions. The longing for what's new, dangerous and mysterious is what really stimulates desire. With little homoeroticisim scattered throughout, the film also covers controversial ground for its time.
It is not a fast moving film but it is definitely captivating in its narrative. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
This review of Belle de Jour (1967) was written by Ibrahim E on 06 Nov 2009.
Belle de Jour has generally received very positive reviews.
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