Review of Contempt (1963) by Matt R — 23 May 2009
Quite an interesting film about film as the protagonist is a writer hired to work on a film being directed by Fritz Lang (playing himself). The producer played by Palance is not a likable character and portrays the industry of film production.
In addition to being a commentary on the film industry it is an interesting character and relationship study. Also some very beautiful cinematography make the film well worth watching. I am ill-educated when comes to Godard's work, the only other film I've seen is A Bout De Souffle, but this film seems a lot more conventional than that film in terms of stylistic techniques.
Whereas A Bout De Souffle showed the materiality of film by techniques such as jump cuts and direct to camera address this film does it by showing the film-making process itself on screen. Although in the opening scene, the colour scheme keeps on changing which also shows how film is manufactured.
In summary, an interesting and enjoyable film about film.
This review of Contempt (1963) was written by Matt R on 23 May 2009.
Contempt has generally received very positive reviews.
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