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"That Obscure Object of Desire", made in 1977, was Luis Buñuel's last film. It was based upon a novel by Pierre Louÿs; Le Femme et le Pantin, and the script was written by director Buñuel and frequent co-writer Jean-Claude Carrière. The film explores desire and unattainable objectification in the guise of an elderly gentleman's ( Mathieu, played by Fernando Rey ) quest for an elusive Spanish coquette. |
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That Obscure Object of Desire by Luis Buñuel Review of the film and Criterion DVD by Gary W. Tooze |
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I would say after having seen only two other Buñuel films, the ones that are on DVD: "Diary of a Chambermaid" and "Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoise" - both from Criterion, I found this to be the most accessible of the three. We see details of a plot unfold through flashback vignettes narrated by Mathieu to a group of passengers that he is sharing a train car with. The concepts of desire, wanting, unfulfilled passion with constant subtle references to terrorism and acts of violence, flow very comfortably making this an enjoyable viewing experience. |
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Buñuel uses two different actresses in the role of the girl, Conchita (Carole Bouquet and Ángela Molina). I believe this could have been done for a variety of reasons. To perhaps show that Mathieu, the narrator of the story, was never really aware of the woman he so desperately desired. Even in his mind he could not rationalize the details of her character. It could have shown a concept that Conchita was a complex character with the strong personality traits and depth of multiple women. She was stalwart in her personal philosophy but at times confused in her lack of affection towards Mathieu. The dual actresses could have represented this inner struggle. In addition it could also have been a Buñuel ploy to further allow the viewer to become accepting of the incongruous details of the story, which as far as his overall messages, would seem to be unimportant. | |
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With the use of intelligent dialogue, "That Obscure Object of Desire" it is definitely not a film for everyone. It is nice to understand all the details of what are transpiring in front of you, but it is never necessary. The film is packed with beautiful cameras shots and thorough positioning of characters and objects within the picture frame. "Wonderful" may not be the appropriate word, but "thought provoking" would surely come close as an accurate phrase of description for this film. | |
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DVD and FILM DETAILS |
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DVD Menu
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Extras
include a fascinating year 2000 recorded 19-minute video interview
with screenwriter Jean-Claude Carrière , who discusses many experiences
working with Buñuel
and his thoughts about the storyline and anecdotes behind "That
Obscure Object of Desire". In the interview he speaks in English . |
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| THE
IMAGE
1.66:1 anamorphic widescreen. From insert:, "This new transfer was created on a high definition Spirit Datacine and mastered from a 35mm interpositiv." The picture quality is pretty spectacular with much sharpness and no instances of visible softness.
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| Technical
Information
Release Information: Aspect Ratio(s): Discographic Information: Edition Details: Sound "That Obscure Object of Desire" in French Mono and English Dubbed Mono EXTRAS: |
Full Cast and Crew for Cet obscur objet du désir (1977) Directed by Luis Buñuel Writing credits Luis Buñuel Jean-Claude Carrière Pierre Louÿs (novel La femme et le pantin) Cast (in credits order) complete, awaiting verification Fernando Rey .... Mathieu Carole Bouquet .... Conchita Ángela Molina .... Conchita Julien Bertheau .... Judge André Weber .... Valet Milena Vukotic .... Woman in train rest of cast listed alphabetically María Asquerino Ellen Bahl .... Manolita Valerie Blanco Auguste Carrière Mario David (I) (uncredited) Jacques Debary Antonio Duque (I) André Lacombe Lita Lluch-Peiro Annie Monange Jean-Claude Montalban Muni .... Concierge Bernard Musson .... Deporting policeman Piéral .... Psychologist Isabelle Rattier David Rocha Justo Ruiz .... Sect's member (uncredited) Isabelle Sadoyan Juan Santamaría Produced by Serge Silberman (producer) Music by Richard Wagner Cinematography by Edmond Richard Film Editing by Hélène Plemiannikov Set Decoration by Enrique Alarcón Pierre Bartlet Pierre Guffroy Costume Design by Sylvie de Segonzac Makeup Department Jean-Pierre Berroyer .... hair stylist Odette Berroyer .... makeup artist Sound Department Guy Villette .... sound Special Effects by François Sune .... special effects Other crew Alan Best .... trainee Suzanne Durrenberger .... script girl Jacqueline Porel (II) .... post-synchronization |
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| Luis Buñuel’s films on Criterion DVD |
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