Nouvelle Vague

A cinephile’s declaration of love by Richard Linklater.

It is 1959, and the young Jean-Luc Godard is feeling anxious. Although he is a renowned film critic, several of his colleagues, including Claude Chabrol and François Truffaut, have already successfully directed their first films. “When are you going to make your first film, Jean-Luc?” He is tired of answering this question. Especially since he doesn't know the answer. Finally, he manages to convince producer Georges de Beauregard, or Beau, to give him a chance. What follows is a filming period that was completely unusual by the standards of both the time and today. Everything is turned upside down and every possible rule is broken. American actress Jean Seberg watches in horror as she perceives complete unprofessionalism unfolding around her. The male lead, Jean-Paul Belmondo, embraces Godard's madness more readily. They are filming “Breathless”, which introduced a brand-new cinematic aesthetic known as the French New Wave and inspired similar movements worldwide.

“Nouvelle Vague” is a real treat for cinephiles and newcomers alike. Fans will recognise many references and gain a detailed insight into the creation of an important film classic, with many of the era's great cinematic figures appearing on screen. Those unfamiliar with the French New Wave can simply enjoy this excellent comic tale of an unstoppable and unrestrained artist who refuses to compromise his vision, despite all advice and common sense.

The film premiered in the main competition programme at this year's Cannes Film Festival.