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Play It Like Godard

Play It Like Godard (2012)

Feb 08, 2012 1h 15m Comedy

Jean-Christophe Kern, known as JC, is not a teenager like any other: he won the Palme d’Or at the age of 15, the Cesar at 16. This year, he is trying to graduate from high school.

Directed by Jonathan Zaccaï

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Jonathan Zaccaï
Writer
  • Jonathan Zaccaï
Producer
  • Vanessa Zambernardi
  • Sylvain Goldberg
  • Jonathan Zaccaï
  • Élodie Hesme
  • Serge de Poucques

Reviews

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Thematic Analysis

Play It Like Godard represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Jonathan Zaccaï 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2012, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Play It Like Godard took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $1.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 75 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 99 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 2012, when this film is released:
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Play It Like Godard shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Get Ready to Be Boyzvoiced, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Play It Like Godard subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Fog: Fact or Fiction? and Slaughter’d explore similar territory, Play It Like Godard stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: February 8, 2012
  • Runtime: 1h 15m
  • Budget: $994,640

Where to Watch

France Channel Amazon Channel