This tragic tale centers around the ill-fated love between Baptiste, a theater mime, and Claire Reine, an actress and otherwise woman-about-town who calls herself Garance. Garance, in turn, is loved by three other men: Frederick, a pretentious actor; Lacenaire, a conniving thief; and Count Eduard of Monteray. The story is further complicated by Nathalie, an actress who is in love with Baptiste.
The multi-layered screenplay, stunning sets and a terrific ensemble are just some of the enduring pleasures of a truly collaborative masterpiece.
A rich and delicious movie treat.
The movie's final parting sequence, where Arletty rides away in a coach and Barrault is inexorably swept in the opposite direction by a swirling crowd, is among the peaks of romantic cinema.
General release. Check local listings for show times.
Edinburgh Filmhouse, Edinburgh from Friday November 18, 2011, until Thursday November 24, 2011. More info: www.filmhousecinema.com
Glasgow Film Theatre, Glasgow from Saturday December 17, 2011, until Sunday December 18, 2011. More info: http://www.glasgowfilm.org/theatre/
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