Plot: What’s it about?
Paul (Jean-Pierre Leaud) just returned from service in the military, but he isn’t going to be a model citizen upon his arrival. As he looks at the world around him, he sees a movement toward more American culture, from politics to entertainment. The conflict in Vietnam has the attention of the world, including Paul’s native France. As a result, some of the American cultural movements have begun to spread across France, such as actors, musicians, and yes, even politicians. While some embrace this new rush of culture, others are repulsed and for Paul, he sees a chance to make a difference. He puts up posters, paints anti-war slogans, and proclaims himself to be a Communist, all in the name of cool. If he can put up this front, one which happens to interest many young ladies, he can be cool himself. But are his new aspirations all an act, or does he have more faith in his new beliefs than he might think?
I’ve seen this movie a few times and while I wouldn’t consider Masculin Feminin to be a masterpiece, I do think it is a terrific motion picture. I also love Roger Ebert’s review of this movie, as he nails the reason this film is so much better than it might seem at first. He says that as you watch, not much stands out, but later on, you remember segments and parts of the movie stay with you. We’ve all seen a movie where a scene or line would roll past and we wouldn’t give it a second thought, only to repeat it later on with glee. Such is the case here, as Jean-Luc Godard has crafted an intricate, but accessible project. The movie is divided into fifteen sections, each of which has its own title and transitions. You can’t help but be interested in the characters, who speak with such depth, but rarely convey any real substance. As usual for Godard, the dialogue is top drawer and the visuals have a bright presence that works well. Criterion’s disc isn’t loaded, but has some nice extras and for fans of Godard, Masculin Feminin is certainly worth a look.
Video: How does it look?
Masculin Feminin is presented in full frame, as intended. This is another example of Criterion’s dedication, as this treatment is top notch in all respects. I’ve seen decent versions of Masculin Feminin, but this new transfer sparkles. As always, Criterion has used a digital restoration process to enhance the elements, so debris, unwanted grain, and even scratches have been minimized, with striking results. The image isn’t just cleaner, it is also sharper and more refined, with more depth than you might expect. The elements still have some worn moments, but fans will be nothing short of thrilled here.
Audio: How does it sound?
The original French soundtrack is preserved here via a mono option, which has been restored and enhanced for this edition. Criterion has cleaned up the elements and removed many imperfections, but this is still an older mono soundtrack. As such, some flaws remain and the audio has a thin presence in most scenes. This movie relies on dialogue however, so we don’t miss depth or dynamic presence in this case. I found dialogue to be clear and easy to understand, while the other elements seem in proper order as well. Not a dynamic soundtrack, but one which handles the material well and offers no reason to complain. This disc also includes optional English subtitles, just in case.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes new and archival interviews with cast and crew members, a critical discussion about the film, footage of Godard in action, and two of the film’s theatrical trailers.
