Reviews haven’t been strong for the next, and likely one of the last, films from the influential French New Wave pioneer Jean-Luc Godard. I certainly hope the trailer isn’t just a sped up version of the film, but our review from NYFF certainly hints at that. Check out our review here and I’ve included an excerpt below, followed by the trailer via Apple.
A flicker film on top of a narrative (?) on top of a documentary, Godard seems to say so much that, well, he doesn’t seem to say anything at all. And whatever is said is only half-heard, or rather, read by those who don’t speak German and French. Godard provides American viewers with subtitles he calls “Navajo,” which is to say he offers about half of what is being said. A noun, maybe a verb. Only a handful of prepositions for every delivered line.
Above all else, the film is frustrating. It lacks most of the awkward, socially-observant comedy present in the work that defined the director’s heyday, such as Breathless or Bande a part. This older Frenchman is much more angry and cynical than the once-film critic who helped set fire to a cinematic revolution 55 years ago.
Synopsis: Legendary director Jean-Luc Godard returns to the screen with Film Socialisme, a magisterial essay on the decline of European Civilization. As a garish cruise ship travels the Mediterranean (with Patti Smith among its guests), Godard embarks on a state of the EU address in a vibrant collage of philosophical quotes, historical revelations and pure cinematographic beauty.
Film Socialisme hits theaters June 3rd, 2011.