Cast
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Michael Pitt
as Matthew
Eva Green
as Isabelle
Louis Garrel
as Theo
Anna Chancellor
as Mother
Robin Renucci
as Father
Jean-Pierre Kalfon
as Jean-Pierre Kalfon
Jean-Pierre Léaud
as Jean-Pierre Léaud
Florian Cadiou
as Patrick
Pierre Hancisse
as First Buff
Valentin Merlet
as Second Buff
Lola Peploe
as The Usherette
Ingy Fillion
as Theo's Girlfriend
Crew
Director
- Bernardo Bertolucci
Producer
- Jeremy Thomas
Reviews
CinemaSerf
It's Paris in the springtime, in 1968, and the students are revolting. "Matthew" (Michael Pitt) is visiting from the USA and he encounters the siblings "Theo" (Louis Garrel) and "Isabelle" (Eva Green) with whom he shares a fascination with movies. They invite him to their home for dinner just as their parents are heading off on trip. It's clear to the visitor that these two have a curiously intimate relationship. Not incestuous, but not a kick in the shirt off it. What now ensues sees "Matthew" ensnared in their games that have basically few holds barred - an orgy of the body and the mind fuelled by curiosity, lust and fine red wines. There is something quite unique about the way in which Bertolucci uses sex (and there's plenty of nudity and sex here) as a tool to explore the character of these three young - and beautiful - people, probing their limits and their ideals in a provocative fashion. Until the very end, I'm not sure the ongoing civil disobedience has much to do with this, indeed I thought maybe that was a way of trying to add some intellectual gravitas to a narrative that is often thinly contrived and consists largely of what would have to be described as soft-porn. It's shocking at times, but the characters are completely undercooked with Garell, especially, having little to do except gradually come to resent the burgeoning sexual relationship developing between his sister and the stranger. It's not a good film, but it is a brave film and may well mark the end of the application of Victorian attitudes and mores to 21st century cinema.
Jun 11, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Dreamers examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Bernardo Bertolucci 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 2003, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Dreamers took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $15.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 115 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 57 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2003, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Dreamers shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Absurdistan, which focuses more on action than character development, The Dreamers subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover and Alpha Dog explore similar territory, The Dreamers stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: October 10, 2003
- Runtime: 1h 55m
- Budget: $15,000,000
- Revenue: $15,100,000
