Daily Movie Rec 8/3/2023

Les Visiteurs du Soir (1942)


"I'm so happy. I'll never forget you. If this is just a dream, I hope I never wake up."

Directed by: Marcel Carné
Cinematography by: Roger Hubert
Country: France


Plot:
In 15th century France, the Devil sends two envoys to bring despair upon humanity, which in this case is not plagues, war, or famine - just making people fall in love and then breaking their hearts. It's French as fuck.


Reasons to watch:
It's a classic of the late French poetic realist movement. Between the sprightly script and magical castle setting, Les Visiteurs du Soir bleeds romance. Though more grounded and mature than most fables, it truly feels like a medieval fairy tale come to life (likely a much-needed escape from the horrors of World War II), further enriched by the heartfelt performances from the cast, whether Jules Berry's campy, scheming Devil, Arletty's seductive, mocking vamp, or the starry-eyed sincerity of Marie Déa and Alain Cuny. 


Where to watch:
The Criterion Channel

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