A few years ago, filmmakers toyed with split images on screen, but the idea generally came across as gimmicky and was never developed to its fullest potential.
In "PARIS JE T'AIME", the producers have used the concept to great effect; inviting, juxtaposed images are used to introduce a handful of characters whose stories unfold on screen in a simplistic, easygoing manner.
In a novel approach, a dozen or so directors at the height of their game, meet the challenge of crafting small celluloid clips based on the theme of "love".
Some of the vignettes range from the offbeat to the hilarious and occasionally zero right in on the human Richter scale: excited hearts beat faster, reflective ones pulse more cautiously, while others brazenly leap out in pursuit of their undying passions.
In one segment, a chance encounter of two hapless city-dwellers results in a practical union of spirits; in another, a young woman craves a drug and succumbs to its sweet seduction, a ready substitute for affection when the stress of her life overwhelms.
For those who wax eloquently that everyone falls in love with Paris, a Vampire tale is obviously a metaphor for those seeking eternal life in the City of Lights.
In my favorite scene, a young artist passionately tries to connect with the object of his desire. Do you believe in soul mates, he wonders aloud; a naive young suitor enthralled with the very idea of love. Unbeknownst to him, the attractive stranger has difficulty comprehending French.
Yes, love is a language that does not always translate well, appears to be the underlying theme of the film.
Probably the most poignant segment unfolds when a postal worker from the U.S. (there are several American characters in the wide-screen release) wanders the picturesque streets babbling in stilted French in the inner recesses of her mind about the joyful élan of the city.
On a park bench - in a happy/sad moment which wistfully washes over her - a startling flash of insight descends on her: she complacently accepts how it is that she has "come to fall in love with Paris".
A number of familiar faces saunter across the screen - Nick Nolte, Ben Gazzara, Gena Rowlands, Steven Buscemi, Bob Hoskins, for instance - and voyeurs, that we are, we salaciously peer up at the screen with fascination as they spin their yarns with expert ease.
Directors adeptly handling their assignments include: Gus Van Sant, the Coen Brothers, and illustrious Wes Craven.
Bottom line, PARIS JE T'AIME is a visually-stunning film.
For romantics, a must see.
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