"Cleo from 5 to 7" was written and directed by the former photojournalist Agnes Varda in 1962. The film tells the story of two hours in the life of a Pop singer as she awaits the results of a cancer test. The film is shot in nearly real-time as the film is only 90 min long lending it almost a documentary quality. What we get is a tour of Paris as she goes about her business. What I like is that the film,and Cleo, do not sink into self-pity but rather take on a existential quality which is caused by uncertainty or not knowing the ultimate result. In many ways it reminded me of other films like "Ikiru" (Kurosawa, 1952) and even "Le Feu Follet" (Malle,1963) in its exploration of this existential angst. Cleo feels that this possible illness leaves her feeling potentially naked, filling her with a feeling of immodesty. In terms of existentialism this film has a happy ending but depending on your philosophy you may not agree. I certainly do.
"Cleo from 5 to 7" starred former club singer Corinne Marchand who delivers a wonderful performance as Cleo. Cinematography was by Jean Rabier who shot several films for new wave directors like Jacques Demy (The Umbrellas of Cherbourg,1967) and Claude Chabrol (Le Boucher,1969) .
"Cleo" truly is a highlight of the French new wave and should be seen by all serious film fans.
This Criterion transfer is of a good standard presented in 1.66:1 with optional English subtitles and was supervised by Agnes Varda herself.