Autumn – the perfect season for Philippe Garrel’s films

When autumn sets in, and the world feels wrapped in a haze of melancholy, it’s the perfect time for certain kinds of films. French director Philippe Garrel, a master of intimate, almost diary-like cinema, captures and conveys this unique state of mind. His black-and-white films, filled with tender sorrow and romantic stoicism, seem tailor-made for mid-season viewing, offering stories that resonate deeply and sincerely.

Frontier of Dawn (La Frontière de l’aube, 2008)

This film is a poetic meditation on lost love, melancholy, and internal searching. Its black-and-white cinematography creates an immersive atmosphere, drawing viewers into the autumnal streets of Paris. Garrel explores how love can be both a solace and a curse, capturing the slow unraveling of a relationship between a photographer and an actress, weighed down by unspoken words and unresolved conflicts.

Frontier of Dawn is more than a love story; it explores what happens when someone loses their grasp on reality and begins living in memories. Garrel described the film as "a dream with no escape." There are no dramatic plot twists, but every scene is imbued with subtle lyricism and quiet sadness, making it perfect for introspective autumn evenings.

Jealousy (La Jalousie, 2013)

Jealousy is one of the most universal themes in cinema, but Garrel transforms it into something deeply personal. The story centers on an impoverished actor (played by Garrel’s son, Louis) who leaves his wife and daughter for a new love—an actress. However, his new partner soon becomes enamored with a wealthier man. On the surface, it’s a simple tale of love and betrayal set against the damp streets of Paris. Still, Garrel delves deeper, unraveling not only the inner conflicts of the characters but also the complex, sometimes painful relationships between generations.

As renowned film critic Serge Daney once said, “French cinema is uniquely close to the existential experience.” This statement perfectly captures Jealousy. It’s not just a story – it’s an emotional chronicle where every frame breathes and resonates as a deeply personal experience. Louis Garrel’s portrayal of his grandfather, Maurice Garrel, adds an autobiographical depth, making the film profoundly moving and a perfect fit for autumn introspection.

In the Shadow of Women (L’Ombre des femmes, 2015)

Despite its title, In the Shadow of Women is not an ode to feminism but rather an intimate portrayal of the complexities of a couple’s relationship. The film follows an independent filmmaker and his wife, who collaborate on documentaries. However, their partnership and love are put to the test when infidelity and jealousy enter the picture.

In this work, Garrel achieves minimalist perfection. Each frame is meticulously composed, and the story unfolds gently, leaving space for viewers to reflect and absorb the emotional spectrum of the characters. It’s a film about life in the shadow of grand events, where the seemingly small moments carry profound significance, reflecting the intricacies of human relationships.

Philippe Garrel’s films are not just stories to watch and forget. They are works that, like fine wine, require time to fully reveal their depth and leave an indelible mark on the viewer’s soul. Garrel doesn’t avoid portraying life as simple, sometimes harsh, yet always full of raw, genuine emotion. Autumn is the perfect season to discover his artistry.