Scene Nun, Take One (1964)

Scene Nun, Take One Poster

An actress dressed as a nun flounces off a film set and has a series of encounters on the streets of London.

Film Overview
"Scene Nun, Take One" is an interesting 1964 movie directed by Philippe Garrel, a turning point in his career, as it was his very first venture into function films. The movie is noteworthy for its experimental nature, a signature design that Garrel has become understood for on the planet of cinema. In spite of its fairly unknown status compared to mainstream movie theater, it is highly related to among fans and critics of progressive, independent filmmaking due to its unique narrative style and thematic depth.

Plot and Characters
"Scene Nun, Take One" is a provocative film centred on a devout nun called Marianne, played by the renowned French actress, Anne Wiazemsky. Throughout the film, Marianne struggles with the borders of her faith, her tragic love life, and her imaginative calling as she establishes an individual relationship with a film director called Jean, played by Jean-Pierre LĂ©aud.

Thematic Exploration
Garrel masterfully tackles a number of powerful themes within the boundaries of the movie. The motion picture delves into the contrasts and conflicts between spiritual dedication and romantic love, with Marianne teetering in between the spiritual commitment of her nunhood and the extensive affection she harbours for Jean. In addition, the film checks out the style of imagination, with Marianne's engagement in filmmaking functioning as a symbolic representation of her desire for self-expression and liberation from the societal standards and expectations that constrain her.

Cinematic Elements and Style
Garrel's distinct cinematic style is evident in "Scene Nun, Take One", with its distinctive mix of black-and-white aesthetic appeals, long takes, and sparse discussions. These features add to producing an atmospheric, reflective, and dreamlike movie experience. Additionally, the film's abstract narrative style eschews standard linearity in favor of a fragmented, episodic structure, showing the inner turmoil and psychological complexities of its protagonist.

Crucial Reception and Impact
"Scene Nun, Take One" was acclaimed for its experimental looks, psychological depth, and expedition of intricate themes. The film's performances, especially that of Anne Wiazemsky, were also highly applauded. The film marked a turning point in Garrel's career and set a foundation for his future stylistic and thematic advancements.

Conclusion
In essence, "Scene Nun, Take One" is an experimentally inspired film that delves into the human mind's intricacies and contradictions, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy, faith and love, and conformity and freedom. Despite its minimalistic style and complex narrative, the film presents a subtle psychological resonance that solidifies its location as a considerable work within the world of independent and progressive movie theater.

Top Cast

  • Susannah York (small)
    Susannah York
    The Actress
  • Sue Lloyd (small)
    Sue Lloyd
  • William Rushton (small)
    William Rushton
  • Richard Ingrams
  • Reginald Hearne
  • Martine Howard
  • George Leech
  • Richard de la Mare
  • Leonard Webb
  • Alexander Harris (small)
    Alexander Harris