"Le pont du Nord", 1981
"Le pont du Nord", 1981
Jacques Rivette, one of the lesser-known but nonetheless influential figures of the French New Wave, uses "Le Pont du Nord" to explore themes of paranoia, dislocation, and the search for meaning in a fragmented world. The film centers around the odd friendship between two women, Marie, played by Bulle Ogier, and her younger counterpart Baptiste, portrayed by Pascale Ogier, as they navigate a Paris that seems simultaneously real and surreal.
"Le pont du Nord", 1981
The film is structured more as a tapestry of interwoven vignettes than a traditional narrative, lending it an enigmatic quality. Both Marie and Baptiste are characters seemingly out of sync with the world, and their idiosyncratic perspectives turn Paris into a labyrinth of puzzles and symbols. The mother-daughter pairing of Bulle and Pascale Ogier adds another layer of complexity to the relationship between their characters.
Rivette's direction and the improvisational style of the film create a sense of unpredictability. As the characters undertake a quest-like journey across Paris, encountering strange events and even stranger people, the line between reality and fantasy becomes increasingly blurred. The film does not offer easy resolutions or clear interpretations, embracing its own enigmatic nature.
"Le pont du Nord", 1981
The city of Paris itself becomes a character in the film, with Rivette using its historical landmarks and less-traveled corners to craft a sense of place that mirrors the movie's labyrinthine themes. This is not the romantic Paris of postcards; it's a darker, more disorienting vision of the city, contributing to the film's unique atmosphere.
"Le pont du Nord", 1981
While "Le Pont du Nord" may not be for everyone due to its experimental structure and lack of straightforward narrative, it's a must-watch for those interested in the more avant-garde side of French cinema. Its elliptical storytelling and complex characters offer a deep well for interpretation and analysis, making it a film that stays with you long after the credits roll.
