Review of Cosmos

Cosmos (1996)
7/10
Director by Director Review
21 November 2002
This being my second, more in depth, review of this film, I decided to break it down by director (and oftentimes also writer). Although the segments are not all clearly cut from one and other (some segments are separated and shown intermingled with others, editing-wise), they can be distinguished by the different characters and storyline.

Before I break it down however, I have to say that besides being the most prolific writer/director of the bunch, André Turpin was also the cinematographer for the whole movie and did a magnificent job with his black and white canvas.

1. Manon Briand (segment "Boost")

Containing probably the best line of the movie (Cars are like women: yesterday "yes", today "no"), this segment is rather dry, long and seems to go nowhere, which is actually where it ends up going. Forgettable, or worst yet, useless but stuck in your head. Disappointing, especially compared to Briand's very good later work ("2 secondes" and "La Turbulence des fluides")

2. Marie-Julie Dallaire (segment "L'individu")

Good use of camera. Slightly intriguing. Vague and elusive. No real conclusion. Not much dialogue. Open and may lead to some reflections. Imagery is once again the best part (André Turpin).

3. Denis Villeneuve (segment "Le Technétium")

Different. Shows that substance is gradually losing to appearance. Interesting look at modern life, arts, the underground circuits, the craze of Internet, fashion and the medias. Good acting by David La Haye.

4. André Turpin (segment "Jules & Fanny")

Best segment. Interesting situation and twists. Best dialogue. Look on modern life, morality, sex, fake breasts and old relationships. Simple, but very effective. Great use of tension/anticipation. Superb acting. Intense.

5. Jennifer Alleyn (segment "Aurore & Crépuscule")

Younger girl and older man. Innocent. Cute. The pool scene could have been cut out, but that's about it.

6. Arto Paragamian (segment "Cosmos & Agriculture")

Funny. Weird. Funny. Slightly philosophical.



All in all remember that a lot is said in this movie and there are many messages to take home and other points to start pondering. Long at parts, but ultimately satisfying.
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