How far along are you with your Blindspot movies of this year? Although this movie wasn’t part of my selection (and I have to confess I still have to watch more of my Blindspot films than I should) it does have a link with them. This movie has been directed by Aleksandr Sokurov, who also was responsible for Russian Ark. Which was 99-minute one shot film which used 2000 extras. Impressive to hear, but the film itself wasn’t for me. In my own words: “has no plot and no character development. The actors never felt convincing and as there isn’t any focus storywise the camera just roams around.”. It’s always possible that one movie from a specific director isn’t your cup of tea, so Francofonia was the second chance. Would it be the final one?
Sokurov was allowed to film Russian Ark in the Russian Hermitage museum and for Francofonia he got access to the Louvre in France. Although his approach is somewhat different here, the movie can be compared. It doesn’t have a traditional story and isn’t structured like a normal film. Sokurov starts the movie with the credits and after that shows him in contact with a freighter sailing on a very rough sea, transporting art. Then he takes you back into time. It’s about the Germans entering Paris during the second world war while the French made sure their art was safely stored outside of the Louvre. It’s also about the relationship between the German occupier and the head of the Louvre. Those parts of the movie stand out as you not only see the footage, but also see the soundtrack visually on the left side of the frame. Sokurov talks about the history of the Louvre, shows special art from the collection but also inserts sequences where Napoleon is walking through the museum.
The end result is a strange mix. One where you might actually learn some history, but in general didn’t manage to convince. It’s an experimental film which didn’t work for me. Sure, the imagery often is beautiful, but it also has moments which stand out for the wrong reasons. There are a couple of shots for which he has used a drone which is carrying a camera which seems way to heavy as the footage is very unstable. So I’ve given Sokurov a second chance, but again felt disappointed. I’m sure there will be lots of people who will enjoy this film, but I’m not one of them. It’s too experimental. Therefore this will be the last film I watch from him.
Interesting review and I can completely see where you are coming from. This came out this year in the States and so far it is one of my favorites of 2016. It is indeed a strange brew but I was captivated by it.
Yeah, it is a movie that’s not for everyone, but I can completely understand why others would like it. Just a bit too “artsy” for me.
Ok so I don’t feel so bad about missing out on this movie at the MSP film fest this past Spring, but I’m still curious enough to check it out. In any case, unfortunately I haven’t been able to keep up w/ the Blind Spot this year, so I probably just carry over the ones I haven’t watched to next year.
I still have some blindspot movies to go…but the year isn’t over yet…will try to see them all myself 🙂