The Rules of the Game
Synopsis
On the brink of WWII, the record-breaking aviator, André Jurieux, safely lands at a small airport crammed with reporters, only to come face-to-face with his worst fear: the object of his desire, Christine, a blonde noblewoman and wife of the affluent Marquis de la Cheyniest, Robert, is not there to greet him. Intent on winning her back, André accepts his friend Octave's invitation for a lavish hunting weekend at the aristocrat's palatial country estate at La Coliniere, among hand-picked guests and the mansion's servants. However, intrigue, rivalries, and human weaknesses threaten to expose royalty and paupers alike. Who will breach first the unwritten rules of the game?
Critical Acclaim
Upon its release in 1939, *The Rules of the Game* initially faced a harsh critical reception and public backlash in France. Jean Renoir's satirical take on the French bourgeoisie was considered controversial and even scandalous, leading to its ban by the French government as war loomed. The film was heavily edited after its debut, which contributed to its initial commercial failure. This reception reflected the tumultuous political climate of the time, where Renoir's critique of society was deemed inappropriate and misunderstood.
Despite its rocky start, *The Rules of the Game* has since been reevaluated and is now widely celebrated as a cinematic masterpiece. Critics like Roger Ebert praised it as "one of the greatest films ever made," highlighting Renoir's innovative use of deep focus and his intricate narrative structure. The film holds an impressive approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, illustrating its enduring appeal and critical reevaluation over the decades. Modern critics commend its complex portrayal of class and human folly, recognizing Renoir's nuanced direction and the film's profound social commentary.
The film's legacy endures as it is frequently cited in "greatest films of all time" lists by the British Film Institute and Sight & Sound, among others. It influenced numerous filmmakers, including Robert Altman and François Truffaut, who drew inspiration from its ensemble cast and layered storytelling. *The Rules of the Game* is now regarded as a pioneering work that helped shape narrative cinema, cementing Renoir's place as a pivotal figure in film history. Its restoration and subsequent release have allowed new generations to appreciate its artistic brilliance and cultural significance.
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