When
Wed 8 Dec 2021
This intensely personal reworking of the Orpheus legend is probably Cocteau’s most influential cinematic achievement.
Cocteau uses reverse slow motion and negative imagery to suggest the Underworld, while the ordinary domestic life of Mr and Mrs Orpheus is filmed realistically, elaborating the theme of the poet caught between real and imaginary worlds. This haunting and visually striking film is amongst the most remarkable attempts to fuse poetry and cinema. Starring Jean Marais, María Casares, François Périer and Juliette Gréco.
Jean Cocteau: The Poetry of Dreams (8–22 Dec 2021)
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About Melbourne Cinémathèque
Australia's longest-running film society screens significant works of international cinema in the medium they were created, the way they would have originally screened.
Melbourne Cinémathèque is self-administered, volunteer-run, not-for-profit and membership-driven.