Starting Your Journey with Eric Rohmer’s Masterful Films

Eric Rohmer was a prominent figure in French cinema, known for his thoughtful and dialogue-driven films that explore moral and romantic dilemmas. If you’re looking to begin your journey with his work, here are some key recommendations and tips on where to start.

Where to Begin with Eric Rohmer

The best way to dive into the world of Eric Rohmer is by starting with his renowned series, The Six Moral Tales. This series exemplifies Rohmer’s style and thematic concerns, providing a solid foundation for exploring his later works.

The Six Moral Tales

This series consists of six distinct films that explore moral and romantic complexities in everyday life. Each film offers a unique perspective on the themes that Rohmer was most passionate about, making them an ideal starting point.

1.

Introduces Rohmer’s focus on moral complexity in everyday life.

2.

Explores relationships and the complexities of desire.

3.

A film about a man observing a woman in a summer house, delving into issues of possession and freedom.

4.

Perhaps the most acclaimed of the series, it tackles themes of faith, love, and moral choices.

5.

Focusses on obsession and the nature of desire.

6.

Explores infidelity and romantic entanglements.

The Comedies and Proverbs Series

Finding a lighter tone, the Comedies and Proverbs series features stories about everyday life that are less focused on moral dilemmas but still offer profound insights into human nature.

7.

A beautiful exploration of loneliness and the search for connection following a woman’s summer vacation.

8.

A film about young love and the complexities of relationships.

Other Notable Films

For a broader range of experiences, here are some other notable films by Rohmer:

9.

A romantic comedy that examines jealousy and misunderstandings.

10.

The last film of the Ma?trise series, which continues the journey of the apprenticeship.

Viewing Tips

1.

Watch the films chronologically to understand the evolution of Rohmer’s style and thematic depth.

2.

Pay close attention to the dialogue; Rohmer’s films are heavily dialogue-driven, so listening closely to conversations is key to understanding the characters motivations.

3.

Reflect on the themes and moral dilemmas faced by the characters, and consider how they resonate with contemporary issues.

Specific Recommendations

To get started, consider the following films:

Le Signe du lion (1962) – A French-American in Paris lives by sponging off his working friends and throws a party using borrowed money when his rich American aunt dies, believing firmly in his horoscope.

Ma nuit chez Maud (1969) – The rigid principles of a devout Catholic man are challenged during a one-night stay with Maud, a divorced woman with an outsize personality.

Ma permission (1984) – Louise, a young woman who recently finished her studies in arts, is working as an interior decorator trainee. Playing the game of seduction, her life becomes more and more complicated.

Conclusion

Eric Rohmer’s films are rich in philosophical inquiry and character study, making them rewarding to watch. Starting with the Moral Tales will give you a solid foundation in his work and prepare you for the thematic depth of his later films. Enjoy your exploration!

Remember, you are watching French cinema, not German cinema. Rohmer’s work is deeply rooted in the French cinematic tradition, offering a unique perspective on everyday life, relationships, and the human condition.

Good luck as you embark on this journey!