Cast
View AllJean-Pierre Léaud
as Antoine Doinel
Claude Jade
as Christine Doinel
Daniel Ceccaldi
as Lucien Darbon
Claire Duhamel
as Madame Darbon
Hiroko Berghauer
as Kyoko
Daniel Boulanger
as Le Voisin Ténor
Silvana Blasi
as Silvana, la Femme du Ténor
Barbara Laage
as Monique, la Secrétaire
Claude Véga
as Le Pseudo Étrangleur
Danièle Girard
as Ginette, la Serveuse
Philippe Léotard
as L'homme Ivre (uncredited)
François Truffaut
as Le Marchand de Journaux (voice) (uncredited)
Jacques Robiolles
as Jacques
Jacques Jouanneau
as Césarin
Christophe Vesque
as Le Petit Christophe
Crew
Director
- François Truffaut
Producer
- Marcel Berbert
- François Truffaut
- André Mucchielli
- Hercule Mucchielli
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Bed and Board 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 François Truffaut 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 1970, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Bed and Board took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 124 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2410 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 205 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1970, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Bed and Board shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Pretty Woman, which focuses more on action than character development, Bed and Board subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Match Point and Freaks explore similar territory, Bed and Board 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: September 9, 1970
- Runtime: 1h 37m
Where to Watch
