L'amour par terre (1984)

In 1984, the master of the French "New Wave," Jacques Rivette, presented the intriguing comedy "Love on the Grass." This is not just a funny story, but a meta-cinematic exploration of the boundaries of reality and fiction, the creative process, and magic. Rivette invites viewers into a labyrinth where the film set becomes an arena for surreal experiments, and a contract for a role is a ticket to the unknown.

Plot

At the center of the story are two young actresses, who are offered leading roles by a trendy screenwriter in a project promising to become a sensation. The girls sign a contract, but discover unusual conditions: they must live at the director's villa for the duration of rehearsals. As they immerse themselves in their roles, the film's plot and reality begin to intertwine strangely. The actresses come under the influence of a mysterious magician; their consciousness is pierced by hallucinations in which they see their future and even upcoming scenes of the film. This whirlwind of secrets, intrigues, magic, and rivalry forces all participants to constantly swap places, questioning their true identities and roles.

Why You Should Watch

• Unique Perspective on Filmmaking: An unconventional, metaphysical approach to creating a film, where creativity borders on mysticism.
• Jacques Rivette's Mastery: The director, known for experiments and multilayered narratives, masterfully weaves the threads of the plot.
• Atmosphere of Mystery and Intrigue: A blend of magic, premonitions, and unpredictable twists keeps you on edge.
• Exploration of the Boundaries of Reality: The film challenges our perceptions of reality, offering a world where hallucinations can be predictions.
• Stellar Cast: An impressive acting ensemble, including Jane Birkin and Geraldine Chaplin, adds depth to this story.

Themes

"Love on the Grass" explores the nature of creativity and the illusory nature of cinema. Rivette shows how the filmmaking process can distort the perception of reality, blurring the lines between actor and character, script and life. The film also touches upon issues of power and manipulation – who controls events? The theme of self-discovery through predictions and role changes is raised, as well as the predetermined nature of fate versus freedom of choice.

Editorial Opinion

"Love on the Grass" is an intellectual game that invites the viewer to immerse themselves in Jacques Rivette's multifaceted world. It's a challenge for those who seek more than entertainment in cinema. A work that makes one reflect on the nature of art, reality, and human perception, leaving a sense of mystery and deep aesthetic pleasure. A true discovery for connoisseurs of unconventional cinema.