Luca Guadagnino’s latest project, Joie de Vivre is a monumental tribute to the late Bernardo Bertolucci the iconic Italian filmmaker. Premiered at the Venice film festival this 426-minute docu-essay is an ambitious endeavor that delves into Bertolucci’s illustrious career and personal life. Guadagnino’s approach is deeply personal, offering a unique perspective on the director’s legacy.
The documentary is divided into two parts, with the first half being notably stronger than the second. Guadagnino’s exploration begins with Bertolucci’s former home in Rome, a place that still echoes with the director’s presence. The film features a plethora of interviews with notable figures in the film industry, including Martin ScorseseCatherine Breillat and Alfonso Cuarón who share their insights and experiences with Bertolucci.
The Early Years and Breakthrough Films
Guadagnino’s journey through Bertolucci’s career starts with his first official feature film, Before the Revolution (1964). This film marked the beginning of Bertolucci’s reinvention of Italian cinema. Scorsese, an early admirer of Bertolucci’s work, recalls the impact of seeing Before the Revolution at the New York Film Festival. The documentary then moves on to discuss The Conformist (1970) and Last Tango in Paris (1972) two films that cemented Bertolucci’s status as a major player in world cinema.
The Controversy Surrounding Last Tango in Paris
The debate around Last Tango in Paris is a central theme in the documentary. Guadagnino explores the film’s controversial butter scene and the allegations surrounding it. He defends Bertolucci from claims that the scene was improvised without the actress’ knowledge, while also delving into the power dynamics on set. This section of the film is particularly compelling, as it examines the evolving perceptions of the film’s sexual politics over the years.
Masterpieces and Later Works
The second half of the documentary begins with a discussion of Bertolucci’s masterpiece, 1900 (1976) a period epic featuring Robert de Niro and Gerard Depardieu. Guadagnino also spends time on La Luna (1976) a film that explores the complex relationship between a mother and her son. The documentary then moves on to Bertolucci’s later works, including The Last Emperor (1987) and The Sheltering Sky (1990).
The Omissions and Digressions
One of the most puzzling aspects of the documentary is its omission of The Dreamers (2003) a film that seems particularly relevant to younger audiences. Guadagnino also spends a significant amount of time on Bertolucci’s final film, Me and You (2012) which is largely considered uninteresting. The documentary concludes with a forlorn elegy for the past, reflecting on the changing landscape of cinema.
Despite its length, Joie de Vivre is a fascinating exploration of Bernardo Bertolucci’s life and work. Guadagnino’s personal approach and the insights from notable filmmakers make this documentary a must-watch for cinephiles. However, the film’s digressions and omissions may leave some viewers frustrated.
