Georges Bernanos wrote the novel from which this film takes its story. Gérard Depardieu stars as an unusually simple young priest questioning his faith as he journeys to a literal and figurative hell and back counselling an especially troubled young woman named (you guessed it) Mouchette. After viewing Bresson’s treatment of other Bernanos material I often wonder how he would have handled this almost supernatural-like story. Maurice Pialat does a credible job, however, of never letting the images overpower or, perhaps, over-develop the narrative. On the other hand, the camerawork doesn’t extend the themes approached. It simply documents them. Bernanos’ story, along with fine performances from Depardieu and Sandrine Bonnaire (as Mouchette), remain the most powerful aspect of this underrated and seldom discussed film.
by Marlin Tyree | Source: Connoisseur Video VHS
27 Jun 2007 5:29 PM | Submit Comment