FEMME PUBLIQUE (France, 1984)
by Andrei Zulawskij

review by Sigmund 1856(sigmund@sbcweb.com)

Rating: *** (out of six)

It's a real shame that this movie has a such confused screen-play. We are acquainted to non-linear plots, but this one exceeds. Probably this is because the director himself performed as a screen writer, and so we often see shots that have a strong visual impact, and are tecnically impressive, but whose function within the storyline is unnecessary and confusing. So many elements remain undetailed, for instance Ethel's relationship with her parents and the underlying political conspiracy. And the mysterious bohemienne writer that appears twice in the movie... who is? And how comes that he is part of Ethel's background? At a certain point you ask yourself what is going on and what the movie is all about.

Editing is not always fault less, and there is some rough cut.

Coming to the bright side, as I noted above there are good shots, both for directing and for acting that is really good by all actors. Valerie Kaprisky who was then 22 old, appears gorgeous and dramatic at the same time. Huster and Lambert also play their parts convincingly.

21/11/98

Ratings:
     * A worthless movie, spending money or time for it is not suggested.
    ** It won't hurt you, but neither please you.
   *** Above average. No bad defects under all points of view.
  **** Very good. There is something noticeable in this movie.
 ***** An excellent movie, flawless and with many elements of interest.
****** An absolute masterpiece, one of those few movies that everybody should see.