The Criterion Collection

[rickons]

Originally Posted by PowellPressburger

I would be surprised if they will stock the Godard release. Sometimes the best Buy stock is hit and miss. Some titles they stock others will just come up on their .com as online only.

I want the Godard one bad... if I find it early I will grab it up. but not holding my breath yet.

They've carried pretty much every other title so far for the last several months (except for Paris TX) so I don't see why not. They will have Summer Hours, so I'm almost sure they will have Vivre sa Vie as well.

[rickons]

Yup...the product page says store pickup is coming soon which means they will carry it

I'll go out today to check if my stores have them out early

[reallyagi]

Originally Posted by billzfan

I just watched Pierrot Le Fou and have to say I really don't get it. Yes, Godard is trying to break the narrative and yes some of his camerawork is beautiful but it is a film that is so in love with the smell of its own farts that it forgets how bad they smell. The acting is completely pedestrian, the dialogue constantly sounds like it's being read from a philosopher's handbook, and it seems to ramble without any real point other than that it exists. Well, great, you made a film unlike any other but there is a reason for that. It's a movie with absolutely no story structure at all. It's just a rough juxtaposition of normalcy on a grand, egotist stage. Now, I know a lot of people here love Godard and I certainly respect their opinion but I love so many filmmakers and films from Wenders to Kuosawa to Bergman to Fellini and all of their best works speak to me. I feel like Pierrot La Fou is mute.

Good point, I guess you can look at it either way.
I still enjoyed the film anyway, but mostly for the technical aspect.
To say the story comes secondary is an understatement.
The "script" is verbose at times, but like you said it's ultimately mute. At least to me.

[kndy]

Originally Posted by billzfan

I just watched Pierrot Le Fou and have to say I really don't get it. Yes, Godard is trying to break the narrative and yes some of his camerawork is beautiful but it is a film that is so in love with the smell of its own farts that it forgets how bad they smell. The acting is completely pedestrian, the dialogue constantly sounds like it's being read from a philosopher's handbook, and it seems to ramble without any real point other than that it exists. Well, great, you made a film unlike any other but there is a reason for that. It's a movie with absolutely no story structure at all. It's just a rough juxtaposition of normalcy on a grand, egotist stage. Now, I know a lot of people here love Godard and I certainly respect their opinion but I love so many filmmakers and films from Wenders to Kuosawa to Bergman to Fellini and all of their best works speak to me. I feel like Pierrot La Fou is mute.

Perhaps one of Godard’s most accessible films, “Pierrot Le Fou” is a film that is best enjoyed after watching a good number of his films that preceded this film.

I have no doubt that like many people on this thread, this is their first foray into the films of Jean-Luc Godard but in my opinion, this film is not a starting point for the beginner. It’s more of a film that can be appreciated even more after watching his previous films and seeing how things have culminated in his work before he started to focus more on his political films.

“Pierrot Le Fou” is often seen as an early paradigmatic example of postmodernism in film. In the film, Godard shows his feeling towards American pop culture but Godard also becomes gets political as he uses the film for his characters to discuss the Vietnam and Algerian war. For many viewers familiar with Godard and his work, many believe this is Godard’s way of using characters to flesh out his true feelings about society. While many feel the film is a paying homage to his nine previous films leading to “Pierrot Le Fou”.

Personally, what I enjoy about this film is the adventure that Godard takes you. We wonder how these two people who are in love with each other, are yet so different. Ferdinand is reserved, quiet and just wants to enjoy the simple and peaceful life he has at the moment. Marianne just is tired of settling down and not doing anything. The fact is that she’s a bad girl. She’s involved with some shady characters dealing with illegal activity but in some way, that is her form of fun and she wants to expose Ferdinand to that life.

The way that Godard has shot the film is quite intriguing. We see things in the film but rarely are they explained. Why does Marianne enjoy killing and hurting others and why is it that both see or do things but not much is mentioned about it. It’s like it’s something natural for them.

Nevertheless, its the adventure of these two unlikely individuals that I find so interesting. Personally, I found it great to see Jean-Paul Belmondo and Anna Karina together as the primary leads for the film. The two have really good chemistry onscreen and the fact that we are enjoying this adventure of two people involved in criminal activity is quite interesting.

Godard has done a great job and utilizing many scenes with the two together to show their story of life together, when things start to become problematic leading up to a pivotal scene that comes out of left field (granted, this is common theme with Godard’s ’60s films, always expect the unexpected).

Overall, “Pierrot Le Fou” is an enjoyable stylish, arthouse film. It’s also one of those films that I feel is appreciated the more times you watch it. Again, this film is not where you should start out if you are wanting to get into Godard films, otherwise you will find yourself a bit puzzled by how the film is paced, how the scenes were cut and how Godard’s endings tend to be.

“Pierrot Le Fou” is a Godard masterpiece, but I highly recommend watching a few of his films such as “Breathless”, “A Woman is a Woman”, “A Band of Outsiders”, “Contempt”, “Alphaville” and “Masculin Feminin” before tackling on this film. Once you start appreciating Godard’s filmmaking, then you’ll definitely appreciate this film even more.

[reallyagi]

Originally Posted by kndy

In the film, Godard shows his feeling towards American pop culture but Godard also becomes gets political as he uses the film for his characters to discuss the Vietnam and Algerian war. For many viewers familiar with Godard and his work, many believe this is Godard’s way of using characters to flesh out his true feelings about society.

I believe you are referring to the scene where the two main characters act out a play for the tourists or locals. It's just seems like an empty exposition of Godard's political views.

Originally Posted by kndy

Personally, what I enjoy about this film is the adventure that Godard takes you. We wonder how these two people who are in love with each other, are yet so different. Ferdinand is reserved, quiet and just wants to enjoy the simple and peaceful life he has at the moment. Marianne just is tired of settling down and not doing anything. The fact is that she’s a bad girl. She’s involved with some shady characters dealing with illegal activity but in some way, that is her form of fun and she wants to expose Ferdinand to that life.

The way that Godard has shot the film is quite intriguing. We see things in the film but rarely are they explained. Why does Marianne enjoy killing and hurting others and why is it that both see or do things but not much is mentioned about it. It’s like it’s something natural for them.

No kidding. It almost seems like we need to justify ourselves for the time spent deciphering the story. Personally, these characters aren't really worth understanding.

I can't dispute the artistic value to this film, and at times it's executed marvelously, unlike anything else I've seen. But...

[P@t_Mtl]

Originally Posted by kndy

Perhaps one of Godard’s most accessible films, “Pierrot Le Fou” is a film that is best enjoyed after watching a good number of his films that preceded this film.

Do you really think so? I always felt A Bout De Souffle was a bit more accessible then Pierrot Le Fou IMO of course.

[Dr. Ian Malcolm]

Originally Posted by PowellPressburger

I would be surprised if they will stock the Godard release. Sometimes the best Buy stock is hit and miss. Some titles they stock others will just come up on their .com as online only.

I want the Godard one bad... if I find it early I will grab it up. but not holding my breath yet.

I was just at my local Best Buy, and they had both Summer Hours and Vivre sa vie. They were both $29.99 at my location, too, which is cheaper than many of the other Criterion Blu-rays they carry.

[PowellPressburger]

Originally Posted by P@t_Mtl

Do you really think so? I always felt A Bout De Souffle was a bit more accessible then Pierrot Le Fou IMO of course.

My thoughts also... my freind, she fell asleep during Pierrot Le Fou, although I love all Godard some people can't watch his films.

I also made my room mate watch DILLINGER IS DEAD with me and he asked me 50 mins in when the movie would start. haha

[stobbart]

Originally Posted by billzfan

I just watched Pierrot Le Fou and have to say I really don't get it. Yes, Godard is trying to break the narrative and yes some of his camerawork is beautiful but it is a film that is so in love with the smell of its own farts that it forgets how bad they smell. The acting is completely pedestrian, the dialogue constantly sounds like it's being read from a philosopher's handbook, and it seems to ramble without any real point other than that it exists. Well, great, you made a film unlike any other but there is a reason for that. It's a movie with absolutely no story structure at all. It's just a rough juxtaposition of normalcy on a grand, egotist stage. Now, I know a lot of people here love Godard and I certainly respect their opinion but I love so many filmmakers and films from Wenders to Kuosawa to Bergman to Fellini and all of their best works speak to me. I feel like Pierrot La Fou is mute.

Why do films need a story? Does an abstract painting need a story behind it? No you get out of it what you do.

Films are just another art form. A film does not need a story or a theme, but it needs only produce feelings in the viewer. I hate when people lambast a movie for not making sense or they could not see the point of it. What does any of that have to do with making a film.

Film like any other art medium is just another outlet for artists to express themselves. Albeit, what Hollywood has turned movies into is something quite different. And has since changed peoples expectations of what films need to be to be films.

My guess is that you dont like Last Year. Which is a shame, its a wonderful movie. Just because it does not conform to your expectations of film does not mean you should disregard it. Much like Pierrot.

To say that it is just makes no real point other then the fact that it exists is really an unfounded complaint. You knock this movie yet I guess you would praise 2001. What is the point? the theme? Its more about the experience of watching the movie and the feelings it produces in you.

I think these movies are some of the best movies out there. Like the ones that I have said. 2001, Last Year, Pierrot, any movie by Wan Kar Wai, A Zed and Two Noughts. All these movies and many more disregard the common narrative and explore one of the more unique avenues that film has to offer.

[P@t_Mtl]

Originally Posted by PowellPressburger

My thoughts also... my freind, she fell asleep during Pierrot Le Fou, although I love all Godard some people can't watch his films.

I also made my room mate watch DILLINGER IS DEAD with me and he asked me 50 mins in when the movie would start. haha

Dillinger Is Dead is coming soon from my ZIP list.

I am going back to Godard for the first time since my college days. I figured I might see some of his movies a bit different now after close to 25 years. I will try some of his more obscure movies this time around

[aggienader08]

Originally Posted by P@t_Mtl

Dillinger Is Dead is coming soon from my ZIP list.

I am going back to Godard for the first time since my college days. I figured I might see some of his movies a bit different now after close to 25 years. I will try some of his more obscure movies this time around

Dillinger is Dead isn't Godard, it's Marco Ferreri.

[P@t_Mtl]

Originally Posted by aggienader08

Dillinger is Dead isn't Godard, it's Marco Ferreri.

Yes I know, the conversation sort of got in two different direction, talking about Godard and mentioning Dillinger Is Dead...sorry for the confusion

I do not post on here as often as many of you. I am French and I sometimes write some weird phrases in English. Let me know if at one point I do something weird, I do not wish to insult anyone cause I can't write properly

[rickons]

Just checked 2 of the Best Buys here that normally put Criterions out early, and neither of them had Vivre sa Vie or Summer Hours I'll try another one later today.......

[aggienader08]

Originally Posted by P@t_Mtl

Yes I know, the conversation sort of got in two different direction, talking about Godard and mentioning Dillinger Is Dead...sorry for the confusion

I do not post on here as often as many of you. I am French and I sometimes write some weird phrases in English. Let me know if at one point I do something weird, I do not wish to insult anyone cause I can't write properly

Oh! I see. Forgive me for intruding.

Honestly, your written English is better than about 75% of the people in this forum. I wouldn't have been able to tell if you had not said anything.

[PowellPressburger]

Originally Posted by rickons

Just checked 2 of the Best Buys here that normally put Criterions out early, and neither of them had Vivre sa Vie or Summer Hours I'll try another one later today.......

Sometimes at Best Buy they have a little cart that has product on it from the back esp Tuesday (depends) and that is where I found the last 3 releases for Bigger then Life, Yojimbo/Sanjuro set, and Days of Heaven. I just took a copy each from the cart and checked out.

also calling to check stock NEVER works, they always just check the computer system which will give the release date, even when you ask someone to check the shelf they can't compute that and just check computer system for title. You always have to check it out yourself.

[rezpekt]

Regarding Antichrist:
First of all, the man behind the camera was Anthony Dod Mantle who made the decision to shoot it 25 frames per second, not Lars von Trier.
Secondly, it was shot at 4K resolution (slow motion epilogue/prologue excluded, those were shot at 1080p with very high framerate of course) with RED One cameras and there is no reason why it should be interlaced. Is it even possible?
And finally, it was slowed down to 23.976 fps for the theatrical screenings and the Polish Blu-ray is also slowed down. Criterion will probably do the same.

[jmcy2k]

The BD that led me to Criterion (CHE) was the only BD I've ever found early at a BB, just as you described. When I attempted to check out, the clerk busted it as an early release and took it back!

Originally Posted by PowellPressburger

Sometimes at Best Buy they have a little cart that has product on it from the back esp Tuesday (depends) and that is where I found the last 3 releases for Bigger then Life, Yojimbo/Sanjuro set, and Days of Heaven. I just took a copy each from the cart and checked out.

also calling to check stock NEVER works, they always just check the computer system which will give the release date, even when you ask someone to check the shelf they can't compute that and just check computer system for title. You always have to check it out yourself.

[PowellPressburger]

Originally Posted by jmcy2k

The BD that led me to Criterion (CHE) was the only BD I've ever found early at a BB, just as you described. When I attempted to check out, the clerk busted it as an early release and took it back!

Funny most people and (no offense) never really have heard of films. I asked about African Queen and they were clueless. If it wasn't made last week or called Avatar good luck.

Most of the time I just pick out the check out lane with the person who isn't the most film savy so to speak. Most of them could care less for selling a copy of Days of Heaven.

[billzfan]

Originally Posted by stobbart

Why do films need a story? Does an abstract painting need a story behind it? No you get out of it what you do.

Films are just another art form. A film does not need a story or a theme, but it needs only produce feelings in the viewer. I hate when people lambast a movie for not making sense or they could not see the point of it. What does any of that have to do with making a film.

Film like any other art medium is just another outlet for artists to express themselves. Albeit, what Hollywood has turned movies into is something quite different. And has since changed peoples expectations of what films need to be to be films.

My guess is that you dont like Last Year. Which is a shame, its a wonderful movie. Just because it does not conform to your expectations of film does not mean you should disregard it. Much like Pierrot.

To say that it is just makes no real point other then the fact that it exists is really an unfounded complaint. You knock this movie yet I guess you would praise 2001. What is the point? the theme? Its more about the experience of watching the movie and the feelings it produces in you.

I think these movies are some of the best movies out there. Like the ones that I have said. 2001, Last Year, Pierrot, any movie by Wan Kar Wai, A Zed and Two Noughts. All these movies and many more disregard the common narrative and explore one of the more unique avenues that film has to offer.

I appreciate your opinion and the mere fact that we're talking about a 50 year old film and having a discussion about it is probably what Godard's original intention was. And, you're right, I do love 2001. The difference I see between the two is that there is some structure within the madness. At the end of the film, I still walk away wondering, "What was the monolith?" "Why didn't the aliens make themselves known before he became the star child?" "What's next for the human race after the evolution?"

I don't need answers for a film to be valid. In fact, I actually appreciate it when an artist lets me make up my mind for myself. The problem I had with Pierrot Le Fou versus films like 8 1/2 or 2001 is that the craft of the film didn't leave me caring about the questions at all. I didn't care what happened to the characters and it didn't inspire my imagination or thoughts. In other words, it didn't speak to me.

You mentioned how painters sometimes don't have a structure to their art, but a feeling. I consider Jackson Pollock to be the greatest American painter ever for that reason. His art inspires me to feel and ask questions about what his emotions were when he crafted "Convergence" or "No. 5." I bring this up because a film does not need a traditional Hollywood narrative for me to consider it a great film. It only needs to convey a message that inspires, and for me, Pierrot Le Fou is mute.

[br0k3nglass]

I was at the local Best Buy last week and found that they had almost every in-print Criterion BD in stock. Some were way overpriced (Lola Montès was $50), but I found that some of them were actually priced less than the cost on the Criterion site...which is really good, seeing as I'm paying in Canadian dollars at Best Buy and US dollars on the Criterion site, plus I get to avoid shipping and duty charges this way.

Picked up a copy of Chungking Express on blu-ray for about $29 after taxes, which is awesome for a Canadian. It costs about $36 on Amazon.ca.