Last Year at Marienbad
Film, 1961, France-Italy, Dir. Alain Resnais


The Critics say: 'Murky, difficult but oddly fascinating tale' (Leonard Maltin)
'High-fashion puzzle movie... has a hypnotic effect on some people; others may be tempted to end it sooner.' (Pauline Kael)
'Marienbad is an immensely fascinating exercise. One viewing will change the way a person watches a film.' (CineBooks' Motion Picture Guide)
'Obscure, oneiric, it's either some sort of masterpiece or meaningless twaddle.' (Geoff Andrew, Time Out)

The Mind says: Arty headf*** from French auteur Resnais. A man called X tries to convince a woman, A, that they had an affair "last year at Frederiksbad, or perhaps at Marienbad", much to the chagrin of M, who appears to be her husband. Or may not be. Yes, it's that kind of film. Set entirely in a huge stately home and its grounds, the film has a gorgeous look, all upperclass 60's French chic and shiny French women, captured by top cinematographer Sacha Vierny. This modernist milestone has influenced many filmmakers and music videos since.

Feel free to Email any Marienbad stuff to THE MIND.

Updated 25/3/2000
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