Agnès Varda was a true legend of French cinema. Known for her unique style and innovative approach to filmmaking, Varda was a pioneer of the French New Wave movement and an inspiration to countless filmmakers around the world.
With a career spanning over six decades, she left behind a legacy of some of the most iconic and influential films in the history of French cinema. In this article, we’ll take a look at the five best movies of Agnès Varda, aka the Queen of French Cinema.
Jacquot de Nantes (1991) – IMDb: 7.7
‘Jacquot de Nantes’ is a charming and nostalgic film that tells the story of Agnès Varda’s husband, Jacques Demy, and his childhood in the city of Nantes. Through a mix of old footage and new re-enactments, Varda creates a touching tribute to her husband and his love of cinema. ‘Jacquot de Nantes’ is a celebration of childhood, creativity, and the power of imagination.
Vagabond (1985) – IMDb: 7.7
‘Vagabond’ is a powerful and provocative film that tells the story of a young woman named Mona who wanders the French countryside, living a life of poverty and isolation. Through her encounters with various people, we learn about her troubled past and the reasons why she has chosen to live as a vagabond. ‘Vagabond’ is a powerful commentary on class and gender in modern society and a haunting portrait of a woman on the margins of society.
Faces Places (2017) – IMDb: 7.8
‘Faces Places’ is a documentary film co-directed by Agnès Varda and French street artist JR. The film follows the duo as they travel through rural France, creating large-scale murals that celebrate the lives of ordinary people. Along the way, they form a touching friendship and reflect on the nature of art, life, and creativity. ‘Faces Places’ is a heartwarming and visually stunning film that celebrates the beauty and diversity of the French countryside.
Cléo from 5 to 7 (1962) – IMDb: 7.9
‘Cléo from 5 to 7’ is a classic of French New Wave cinema and one of Agnès Varda’s most iconic films. The film follows a young singer named Cléo as she wanders the streets of Paris, waiting for the results of a medical test. Through her encounters with various people, she begins to confront her own mortality and reflect on the meaning of life. With its innovative structure and stunning visuals, ‘Cléo from 5 to 7’ is a must-see for fans of French cinema.
The Beaches of Agnès (2008) – IMDb: 8.0
‘The Beaches of Agnès’ is a deeply personal documentary film that tells the story of Agnès Varda‘s life and career. Using a mix of old footage and new interviews, Varda takes us on a journey through her life, from her childhood in Belgium to her early days in the French New Wave and beyond. The film is a beautiful and intimate portrait of a remarkable artist and a celebration of her legacy.
Agnès Varda was one of the greatest filmmakers of all time, and her legacy continues to inspire and influence filmmakers around the world. Whether you’re a fan of French cinema or simply love great storytelling, the five films on this list are a must-see for anyone who wants to experience the magic of Agnès Varda’s cinema.
