Film Review: “The Green Ray” (FRA 1986) and “Boyfriends and Girlfriends” (FRA 1987) by Eric Rohmer

Content:  In this podcast, we talk about two films of French Nouvelle Vague director Eric Rohmer: “The Green Ray” (1986) and “Boyfriends and Girlfriends” (1987), both part of the “Comedies and Proverbs” series.  “The Green Ray” portrays Delphine whose vacation plans fail and describes her emotional emptiness and difficulties in finding joy. We emphasize the viewer's uncomfortable experience.  “Boyfriends and Girlfriends” tells the story of two friends who realize that each other's partners might be better suited to them, and we praise this film as Rohmer's masterpiece and highlights the charming Sophie Renoir.  “The Green Ray” is standing out for its unusual heaviness and “Boyfriends and Girlfriends” is painting a nostalgic picture of a time without computers and the internet.  We will gradually review the other films of Eric Rohmer as well. To avoid missing these reviews, you can subscribe to our channel and activate the notification bell. This way, you’ll stay updated on the next Rohmer film critiques and all other new releases on this channel.  Plot:  The Green Ray (1986)  Delphine is a secretary in Paris. Her travel companion cancels two weeks before her vacation, leaving Delphine to fend for herself. She doesn’t want to travel alone but has no boyfriend and seems incapable of meeting new people. A friend takes her to Cherbourg. After a few days there, the tearful and self-pitying Delphine returns to Paris. She tries the Alps but comes back the same day. Next, she heads to the beach. Here, too, she wants to cut her stay short.  Boyfriends and Girlfriends (1987)  Blanche, an office worker, and Léa, a student, meet in the Paris suburbs and become friends. Léa is with Fabien but considers leaving him. Blanche falls for Léa’s handsome and witty friend Alexandre but is left speechless whenever she meets him. Léa goes on vacation, and Blanche, still in love with the dashing Alexandre, gets to know Fabien better.