A Bold Departure From Conventional Romance

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MOVIE REVIEW
Please, Not Now! (La bride sur le cou)
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Genre: Comedy, Romance
Year Released: 1961, 2023 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 26m
Director(s): Roger Vadim, Jean Aurel
Writer(s): Claude Brulé, Roger Vadim, Jean Aurel
Cast: Brigitte Bardot, Joséphine James, Michel Subor, Jacques Riberolles, Mireille Darc, Claude Brasseur
Language: French with English subtitles
Where To Watch: available January 2, 2024; pre-order here www.kinolorber.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: PLEASE, NOT NOW! takes us into the heart of 1960s French cinema, where Brigitte Bardot’s magnetic presence and Roger Vadim’s visionary direction meld into a captivating romantic comedy. This film stands out with its daring sexual undercurrents, offering a refreshing alternative to the more conservative American movies of its time. While also remaining very tame by today’s standards.

At the heart of the movie is Sophie, portrayed by Bardot. She’s a model whose world is rocked by heartbreak, leading her on a journey of revenge against her rival, Barbara Wilbury, played by Joséphine James. Michel Subor’s portrayal of Alain Varnier, a smooth bachelor, adds another layer of charm to the mix.

PLEASE, NOT NOW! marks a fascinating entry into the artistic worlds of Bardot and Vadim, possibly serving as a gateway to the French New Wave for newcomers. The film, while occasionally brushing against outdated views on gender, shines due to Bardot’s unforgettable performance and her iconic hairdo. One of the most essential aspects of watching older films is to make sure you can understand the period they were made during while also understanding that things change over time.

Set in picturesque Paris, the film starts with the stamina of a silent movie classic, then settles into a more traditional storytelling pace. Sophie’s emotional odyssey, marked by jealousy and vulnerability, is portrayed with a delicate yet decisive touch. The interactions between Sophie and the enchanting characters of Alain and Claude (Claude Brasseur) infuse the narrative with wit and complexity. The visual dynamics on screen become even more compelling as the story unfolds through various settings, including an Italian ski resort.

Bardot’s performance is central to the film’s allure, highlighted by scenes from fun go-kart races to a tastefully shot dream sequence. These elements add a whimsical, enchanting quality to the movie. Beneath its seemingly light exterior, the film delves into more profound, more intricate themes, especially the real-life relationship dynamics between Bardot and Vadim. This aspect adds an intriguing layer to the film.

PLEASE, NOT NOW! is a valuable addition to the Nouvelle Vague movement and the broader landscape of French cinema. While it may not be the crowning achievement of Vadim’s directorial career, it certainly showcases Bardot’s exceptional talent and screen presence, making it a memorable and enjoyable cinematic experience.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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