Numéro deux (1975)

 

 

An analysis of the power relations in an ordinary family.

Experimental video essay is quite a demanding watch, since Godard manages to continuously irritate and provoke his audience off guard, but again compelling enough to keep its attention.

 

Maltin**1/2: "Fascinating but self-conscious and confusing aural visual smorgasbord detailing the effects of capitalism on a modern family." 

Sauve qui peut (la vie) (1980)

An examination of sexual relationships, in which three protagonists interact in different combinations.

From memory: Godard's 'return' to mainstream cinema, if you dare call it that, reveals a new, sovereign handling of image, sound, music and editing; the result is a complex, irritating, but likewise fascinating work of art.

Halliwell*: "Godard's return to more commercial cinema is intermittently interesting, but lacks the challenge and playfulness of his best work."

Maltin**1/2: "Self-conscious account...Godard's "comeback" film was widely overrated, and certainly can't compare with his best work of the past."