Le Rouge et le Noir (Scarlet & Black)

[pro-bassoonist]

Claude Autant-Lara's Le Rouge et le Noir a.k.a Scarlet & Black (1954) has received a preliminary release date for the Gallic markets: June 15th. Courtesy of Gaumont.

Based on the novel by STENDAHL. A lavish and vivid filming of Stendahls classic story of passion, ambition and conflict in 1830 France. This is the saga of Julien Sorel, a man of humble birth. From the outset of his life, he has been unwilling to accept his place in the world. The opportunistic Sorel remains steadfastly determined to rise above his origins and enter what the upper classes call "society." At the outset of the story he is on trial for his life. How did this come to be? As Sorel awaits his fate, he thinks of his past. The scenario goes on to chart his roots as a laborers son and the manner in which he loses his soul while attempting to make a place for himself in a world governed by the elitist supporters of absolute monarchy. Stendahls point is to take cynical jabs at the bourgeoisie, and director Claude Autant-Lara serves the material well. The dashingly handsome French film star Gerard Philipe will make female hearts swoon as Sorel while Danielle Darrieux and Antonella Lualdi are radiant in their respective roles as a mayors wife and a marquis daughter: two women who impact immeasurably on Sores life.

Pro-B