Every Emotion Under the Sun

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MOVIE REVIEW
Patrice Leconte Collection
Hairdresser's Husband (Le mari de la coiffeuse) –
Yvonne's Perfume (Le parfum d'Yvonne) –
Girl On The Bridge (La fille sur le pont) –
Half a Chance (1 chance sur 2) –

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance, Action, Adventure
Year Released: 1990 – 1999
Runtime: 6h 9m
Director(s): Patrice Leconte
Writer(s): Patrick Cauvin, Patrice Leconte, Patrick Modiano, Serge Frydman, Patrick Dewolf
Cast: Jean-Paul Belmondo, Alain Delon, Vanessa Paradis, Jean Rochefort, Daniel Auteuil
Language: French with English subtitles
Where To Watch: available July 30, 2024; pre-order here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Patrice Leconte's directorial flair is brilliantly showcased in the PATRICE LECONTE COLLECTION, where he masterfully narrates tales across a spectrum of emotions and genres, brought together with this powerful Kino Lorber release. This anthology is a cinephile's delight, offering a mix of humor, romance, mystery, and action, each film contributing uniquely to an overarching experience that speaks to the versatility of its director.

Starting with HAIRDRESSER'S HUSBAND, we enter a quaint hair salon, the center stage for a romance that blossoms in a seemingly ordinary world. Jean Rochefort and Anna Galiena infuse their roles with a chemistry that turns everyday salon exchanges into a canvas of affection and humor. This film captures the essence of enduring love and frames its progression within the intimate confines of their shared workplace, adding a layer of coziness to their narrative.

Beyond the narratives, Leconte's signature directorial style is evident in his meticulous attention to cinematography and sound design, which play pivotal roles in shaping the viewer's experience. Each film's camera work is tailored to enhance the story's emotional depth, precisely capturing every subtle expression and scenic detail. The soundtracks, carefully curated to match the mood of the scenes, further immerse the audience in the diverse worlds Leconte creates. This thoughtful integration of visual and auditory elements ensures that each film tells a story and evokes a palpable atmosphere that lingers with the audience.

The tone turns suspenseful with YVONNE'S PERFUME, which transports viewers to a secretive lakeside retreat. Here, the tranquil setting contrasts sharply with the intense drama that unfolds, driven by themes of forbidden love and isolation. The secluded environment magnifies the characters' emotional turmoil, making this a compelling watch that skillfully maintains tension until the end.

Comedy and action blend seamlessly in HALF A CHANCE, where Jean-Paul Belmondo and Alain Delon light up the screen. The plot revolves around a dynamic duo who may share more than heroic antics; they might also share a daughter. Their adventures against a mafia backdrop are filled with laughs and thrills, showcasing Leconte’s knack for balancing diverse film genres in a single narrative.

GIRL ON THE BRIDGE concludes the collection on a visually and emotionally high note. This film pairs a monochrome aesthetic with the deep emotional currents of an unconventional romance. The evolving relationship between a knife-thrower and a troubled young woman is framed within a context of both literal and metaphorical edginess, providing a fitting end to a series that traverses a broad emotional and stylistic spectrum.

Leconte's films are not just stories; they are explorations of life's complexities through the lens of cinema. While distinct, each entry in this anthology supports the others, creating a mosaic of human experiences that resonate widely. This collection is not merely to be watched; it's to be experienced, providing a blend of entertainment and profound insight into the vagaries of the human condition.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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