Having directed a trio of masterpieces - two documentaries and a short feature - Jean Vigo finally directed a feature film. Unfortunately, "L'Atalante" turned out to be his final film; he died of tuberculosis the year of its release, aged 29. Vigo's swan song, like his earlier releases, was a fine piece of work. This one focuses on a marriage and the problems that the newlyweds face. The most impressive scene is towards the end, when Jean and Juliette lie in their beds imagining each other, affirming that - despite the bad things that have befallen them since they tied the knot - they are meant to be together. A good note on which to end.
It would've been interesting to see where Vigo would've gone with his movies had he survived. I understand that his oeuvre influenced the French New Wave of the 1960s. Makes sense. I hope that more and more people pay attention to Vigo's works in the coming years. He was one great director, even though he only turned out four productions.
Great movie, this one.
It would've been interesting to see where Vigo would've gone with his movies had he survived. I understand that his oeuvre influenced the French New Wave of the 1960s. Makes sense. I hope that more and more people pay attention to Vigo's works in the coming years. He was one great director, even though he only turned out four productions.
Great movie, this one.