Product: Jean de Florette (1987)
Rating: 5.0
A Beautiful Film
Gerard Depardieu is superb in this film, as are all of the characters. It is one of the most beautiful films I have seen; however, it is imperative that Manon of the Spring (part II of this movie) be watched immediately afterward to obtain the full splendor of its telling. The scenery is gorgeous, and the acting splendid. It is a simple tale with simple people, and you have to be willing to get comfortable and spend the time it takes to watch the whole story without getting impatient. It will be worth the wait. It is the tale of French provincial farmers, their mentality. and the intrusion of a city fellow (Depardieu) who has inherited a farm and come to join their ranks. He wants to succeed and has a wonderfully positive outlook about his prospects. They just want to drive him out and have a negative attitude. They get their come-uppance through his daughter in the second film, Manon of the Spring, and the tale comes all the way around. It is one of the top five favorite films that I have ever seen. An exquisite little gem. If you like the Hollywood style, stay away from it - you'll be bored to death. If you have the time to sit back and appreciate what's in front of you, you will love it.