Review of Vive L'Amour (1995) by Sabrina I — 21 Feb 2011
Recalling the work of Antonioni who is clearly an inspiration here, VIVE L'AMOUR is slow but affecting film about three people suffering from loneliness in an urban setting. At times funny and other times sad.
..the people in this film long for connection and love but are not able to attain it. One of the most interesting aspects of this film is how the woman's apartment looks. It's so bare..there aren't even any bed sheets on the beds.
Compared to the crowded city in which she lives, her apartment is empty just like her life. The only visitors she has are her lovers, but no family members...no friends. I wonder what causes people to be so alienated from society? The film simply explores these themes but leaves it up to the viewer to think about what is going on with these characters and how they got to where they are.
It relies more on images rather than dialogue. There's barely any dialogue in this film. The last 8 minutes...the camera pans the city and then the woman finally breaks down and cries. In the entire film.
..she is seen doing everyday chores or walking the streets alone but we aren't aware of her inner torment. Some moments here and there the directors allows us a peak into her state of mind but overall we are kept at a distance till the very end when she breaks down.
It's a poignant scene and stays with you. I wouldn't recommend this film to the average viewer but to people looking for an Antonioni-type experience this one is just perfect.
This review of Vive L'Amour (1995) was written by Sabrina I on 21 Feb 2011.
Vive L'Amour has generally received very positive reviews.
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