Cast
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Malisa Longo
as Christa
Philippe Gasté
as Gilles Pilar
Anne Libert
as Juliette
Karine Jeantet
as Françoise
Monique Vita
as Monique
Pierre Danny
as Max
Christian Duroc
as Claude Mouret
Jean Roche
as Xavier Monfort
Mimma Biscardi
as Barbara
Michèle Perello
as La secrétaire de Claude
Laurence Badie
as Suzette, la première secrétaire de Gilles
Anne-Marie Coffinet
as La secrétaire de Xavier
Richard Darbois
as Jean-Pierre
Jean Droze
as Eugène, l'acheteur aux chiens
Philippe Dumat
as Le père de Gilles
Crew
Director
- Jean-François Davy
Producer
- Michel Gast
- Jenny Gérard
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Line Up and Lay Down represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Romance cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Jean-François Davy 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 1973, 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 Line Up and Lay Down took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 64 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 84 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 440 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1973, when this film was released:
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Line Up and Lay Down 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 Piano Teacher, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Line Up and Lay Down subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Nowhere and Russian Dolls explore similar territory, Line Up and Lay Down 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 29, 1973
- Runtime: 1h 4m
