Review of Jules and Jim (1962) by Jh K — 29 Jul 2015
François Truffaut's "Jules and Jim" is a masterful examination of a true ménage à trois remains oddly "current.".
The film takes place both before and after WWI. Jules and Jim fall in love with the same woman. "Catherine" played with casual sensuality and eroticism by Jeanne Moreau, is strangely transfixing. This has always been Moreau's unique gift as an actor. Far from conventional ideas of "beauty" or "the erotic" -- she non-the-less is irresistibly alluring. To Truffaut's credit, he captures Moreau's unique presence, intelligence and sensuality so that just about every viewer will feel something for her.
The two friends never surrender their friendship despite a tragic war and their shared love for the increasingly fickle and odd Catherine. Ultimately the two friends end up trading places as her lover. There are vague hints that the two men might also be in love with each other, but that doesn't really need to be explored. It is a given.
As fun, wistful and beautiful as the film is -- it is equally devastating. After years of friendship and love, these two men gain the true insight into their Catherine. The insight comes too late to avoid tragedy.
We are left forever wondering if we were in love with Catherine or some misplaced idea of what we thought Catherine was. Freedom and love come at a price. But the market place will only bear so much.
A true French Cinematic Masterpiece of La Nouvelle Vague. Not to be missed!
This review of Jules and Jim (1962) was written by Jh K on 29 Jul 2015.
Jules and Jim has generally received very positive reviews.
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