Behind the scenes: Last Tango in Paris (2004)

Behind the scenes: Last Tango in Paris Poster
Original Title: Il était une fois... Le dernier tango à Paris

A behind the scenes look at Bernardo Bertolucci’s classic film about the dark side of the sexual revolution: Last Tango in Paris, starring Marlon Brando and Maria Schneider.

Introduction
"Behind the Scenes: Last Tango in Paris" is a comprehensive supplementary documentary that was launched in 2004. It provides viewers an informative, behind-the-scenes exploration of Bernardo Bertolucci's 1972 questionable film, "Last Tango in Paris". The documentary consists of interviews with substantial figures associated with the production such as Bertolucci himself and leading actor Marlon Brando, along with commentary from movie critics.

Bertolucci's Confession
In the documentary, Bernardo Bertolucci admits he controlled the all-too-infamous butter scene deliberately. He describes how he and Marlon Brando conspired to amaze actress Maria Schneider during the recording of this scene to catch her real shock, and specific emotional reaction. Critics reveal their varied viewpoints on this revelation, developing an ongoing argument about the ethical boundaries in filmmaking.

Appeal and Controversy
The documentary delves into the enormous allure and debate surrounding the initial movie. "Last Tango in Paris" was considered scandalous due to its specific sexual content, and the documentary reveals the shock it triggered, leading to its restriction and censorship in many nations. There are discussions about the representation of sex, particular the butter scene, which led Brando to reveal remorse about his involvement in the film.

Brando's Raw Performance
Marlon Brando's performance in the movie receives specific attention in the documentary. Critics and those associated with production praise his raw, psychological performance, which lots of consider among his finest. Bertolucci shares anecdotes about working carefully with Brando and how the star would often withstand his instructions, leading to a sometimes turbulent but eventually gratifying working relationship.

Technical Aspects and Unconventional Choices
The documentary talks about the movie's groundbreaking technical elements, with special focus on Vittorio Storaro's camera work and the unconventional choices surrounding areas and scenes. The option of Paris as the setting and the choice of tango as a metaphor for a romantic, passionate, yet ultimately doomed relationship are discussed.

Movie Critic's Review
The movie critics' interviews are valuable pieces in understanding the film's significant place in cinematic history, with their articulate and typically contrasting views. Critics talk about how Bertolucci produced a deep mental exploration of characters through explicit sexual story, a relocation that was extreme for its time.

Conclusion
While the documentary "Behind the Scenes: Last Tango in Paris" does check out the contentious aspects of the movie's production, primarily the infamous butter scene, it fails to delve into Maria Schneider's traumatic experience and her outspoken criticism of Bertolucci and Brando in the years following the film's release. This aspect might have shed more light on the ethical debate surrounding the movie. However, the documentary remains a necessary expect cinephiles as it offers a thorough understanding of a film that had a noticable effect on movie theater.

In summary, "Behind the Scenes: Last Tango in Paris" provides a comprehensive summary of the making of one of the most influential and controversial films of the 20th century. Covering everything from the director's techniques to actor's performances and critical reception, this documentary serves as a remarkable buddy piece to the initial film.

Top Cast

  • Catherine Allégret (small)
    Catherine Allégret
    self
  • Bernardo Bertolucci (small)
    Bernardo Bertolucci
    self
  • Germaine Greer (small)
    Germaine Greer
    self
  • Jean-David Lefebvre
    self
  • Fernand Moszkowicz
    self
  • Maria Schneider (small)
    Maria Schneider
    self
  • Vittorio Storaro (small)
    Vittorio Storaro
    self
  • Marlon Brando (small)
    Marlon Brando
    self (archive footage)