This film does not have a great deal of substance, it is chiefly an observation of characters that are not inherently interesting, but unusual for their attitudes. There are brief philosophical discussions, but the majority of action and dialogue is pastoral, leisurely, not particularly explicit, yet heartfelt lovemaking and expressions of love. What is remarkable about the presentation is the beauty of all the people and all the scenery and all the interactions, and the willingness of most of the characters to accept and not violate that beauty. The script is on the dull side, but it works that way because it is part of the underlying theme of keeping conflict out of the characters' lives. All the important players are fine in their roles, even tho four of them are just a real life family. The wife/mother is played by Claire Drouot who surprisingly never made another film, even tho she was absolutely lovely and charming in this. Director Varda makes an unusually quiet yet much needed contribution to the overall library of cinema.
Happiness
(1965)
The title literally means "Happiness", but could easily have also been "Love" or "Beauty"
14 February 2023