Serving Historical Sports Insights

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MOVIE REVIEW
The French
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 1982, 2024 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 2h 15m
Director(s): William Klein
Where To Watch: available May 28, 2024; pre-order here www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Step back into 1982 with THE FRENCH, a riveting documentary that has just returned to the limelight. The film offers a deep dive into the electrifying world of the 85th Roland-Garros Tournament (French Open). Directed by William Klein, it delivers a masterful blend of intense match footage and revealing behind-the-scenes glimpses, creating a vivid tapestry of a sport on the brink of global fame. The film is more observational cinema; it watches portions of the matches unfold and offers a look into why this event was as important as it was.

THE FRENCH captures the extraordinary mastery of Björn Borg on the clay courts, his composure unshaken amidst the fervor of competition. Yet, it’s not just Borg’s story—figures like John McEnroe bring a fiery dynamism to the film, his infamous confrontations starkly contrasting Borg’s stoicism. The documentary doesn’t stop there; it delves into the lives of competitors like Virginia Ruzici, whose determination and battles add a rich layer of drama, making the sports scenes all the more gripping. This film isn’t just for tennis fans; I assume they will gain more appreciation than everyday documentary fans.

This is an exploration of the psychological battles faced by players. Yannick Noah’s segments stand out, as Klein captures his reflective moments after challenging matches, offering viewers a rare look into the emotional and strategic battles that define elite sports. These deeper narratives are balanced with lighter, genuine moments that depict the camaraderie and intricate dynamics off the court.

Klein also tackles significant issues such as gender disparity in sports, critiquing how media coverage and organizational biases often sideline women’s achievements in favor of men’s. This broader social commentary elevates THE FRENCH beyond a standard sports documentary to a poignant reflection on societal structures. It’s a shame that, over 40 years later, we’re still fighting those same battles.

Visually, THE FRENCH stands out with its raw, unfiltered 16mm footage that immerses viewers right into the heart of the action. This gritty style enhances the importance of the documentary, making every moment of exertion and stress feel palpably real.

Thanks to Wes Anderson’s help in bringing this film back to prominence, this reissue preserves THE FRENCH as an essential historical document and a work of art with enduring relevance. Klein’s insightful filmmaking captures a transformative period in tennis, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the intricate dynamics of professional sports.

For those intrigued by the nuances of tennis or documentary filmmaking, THE FRENCH offers much more than typical sports coverage. It incorporates a compelling narrative of human drama, strategic depth, and the sheer will to compete, transforming a simple athletic event into an absorbing story of perseverance and spirit.

In summary, just like landmark documentaries have immortalized critical moments in various fields, THE FRENCH does the same for tennis, providing a definitive look at the sport’s emotional and physical trials. It is a vital exploration of competition, resilience, and victory, making it essential viewing for anyone who appreciates deep, story-driven portrayals of human endeavor.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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