Cast
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Claude Jutra
as Claude
Johanne Harelle
as Joanne
Victor Désy
as Victor
Tania Fédor
as Claude's mother
Guy Hoffmann
as The priest
Monique Joly
as Monique
Monique Mercure
as Barbara
Patrick Straram
as Patrick
François Tassé
as An actor
René Bail
as A biker (uncredited)
Anne-Claire Poirier
as A woman at the party (uncredited)
François Truffaut
as Self (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Claude Jutra
Writer
- Claude Jutra
Producer
- Robert Hershorne
- Claude Jutra
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, À tout prendre examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Claude Jutra brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1963, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of À tout prendre took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1241 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1963, when this film was released:
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While À tout prendre shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Talented Mr. Ripley, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, À tout prendre subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Monster's Ball and Shortbus explore similar territory, À tout prendre stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 9, 1963
- Runtime: 1h 39m
- Budget: $46,421
Where to Watch
