Review of Jean de Florette (1986) by Dryorophus — 01 Nov 2009

Jean de Florette is a 1986 French historical drama film directed by Claude Berri, based on a novel by Marcel Pagnol. It is part of a duology, and is followed by Manon des Sources. The film takes place in rural Provence, where two local farmers scheme to trick a newcomer out of his newly inherited property.

The movie starred three of France's most prominent actors ? Gérard Depardieu, Daniel Auteuil, who won a BAFTA award for his effort, and Yves Montand in one of the last roles before his death. Extremely well-made film very French and very melancholy very human "Jean de Florette" is a merciless study in human nature.

It's the story of how two provincial French farmers systematically destroy the happiness of a man who comes out from the city to till the land. Jean de Florettet is a touching tale that is simple and succinct while not devolving into a confusing and minimalist mess.

Depardieu and Auteuil are at their height as actors and director Berri make some amazing idescreen panoramas of the beautiful French countryside that remain unforgettable. It was so excating for me to watch so many shots of the landscape and the sky, and there was one enormously dramatic set piece when the sky fills up with rain clouds, and the thunder roars and the rain seems about to come.

And then, as Depardieu and his family run outside to feel it against their faces, the rain falls elsewhere and Depardieu shakes his fist at the heavens and asks God why he has been forsaken. Oh it was realy amazing !!!