Review of Jules and Jim (1962) by Guido P — 25 Jun 2007

There are two kinds of great movie characters: the first, and most widely accepted sort, is the likable protagonist, wherein you see yourself reflected on screen; then there's the fascinating protagonist - not necessarily likable, but intriguing, beguiling, as if they represent a mystery too engaging to quit thinking about, yet too obtuse to ever really understand.

That's what this film is about; three profoundly flawed people, who are nevertheless hugely enigmatic, most particularly Catherine, who is justifiably one of the most iconic female characters in the cinema.

At turns independent, brave, borderline insane, and entirely selfish, she is the void that the male characters tragically fall into. Her two boyfriends (three, counting Albert, but he's not important to the plot) are the titular buddies, Jules and Jim.

The former is the epitome of the pathetic, needy loser, so afraid of losing Catherine, so destitute of self-esteem and pride in his own worth, that he will withstand anything, as long as she's by his side.

The latter calls himself Jules' friend, yet he agrees to start an affair with Catherine, despite the fact that she's, by then, Jules' wife. Then again, as can be expected from a man who evidently believes he is insignificant, Jules does not prevent Jim from doing as he pleases; all three of them will live in harmony.

Alas, it is not to be; things will end in tragedy. How can any long-term plan be successful with a woman like Catherine? She will not give way, she will not concede or sacrifice anything, in favor of another's happiness.

The only thing she cares about is herself, and her own survival. The rest of the world must abide to her random feelings, her fancy, and her incoherent whim. She is a free spirit; but she only destroys, because she continues to insist, to expect, others to follow her in her personal wanderings.

She does not settle - she can't - and yet she wants children, a marriage. Catherine is forever looking for something, a way of living life that suits her, a semblance of stability, even as her very idiosyncrasies contradict such aims.

But she is not to blame; it is rather Jules and Jim who do not understand her. Who do not accept that she is fated to be a solitary woman, because nobody can tag along in her flight. Yet they stubbornly attempt the impossible, never recognizing when they should just walk away, and forget her.

But, unfortunately, they can't.