Cast
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Ève Ruggieri
as Self - Host
Jean Clemente
as (Segment "Les Français vus par Werner Herzo")
Claude Josse
as (Segment "Les Français vus par Werner Herzo")
Barbara Hendricks
as Self - Interviewee
Harry Dean Stanton
as (Segment "The Cowboy and the Frenchman")
Frederic Golchan
as (Segment "The Cowboy and the Frenchman")
Tracey Walter
as (Segment "The Cowboy and the Frenchman")
Jack Nance
as (Segment "The Cowboy and the Frenchman")
Michael Horse
as (Segment "The Cowboy and the Frenchman")
Rick Guillory
as (Segment "The Cowboy and the Frenchman")
Marie Lauren
as (Segment "The Cowboy and the Frenchman")
Patrick Houser
as (Segment "The Cowboy and the Frenchman")
Eddy Dixon
as (Segment "The Cowboy and the Frenchman")
Magali Alvarado
as (Segment "The Cowboy and the Frenchman")
Ann Sophie
as (Segment "The Cowboy and the Frenchman")
Crew
Director
- Werner Herzog
- David Lynch
- Luigi Comencini
- Jean-Luc Godard
- Andrzej Wajda
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The French as Seen by… 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 Werner Herzog 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 1988, 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 The French as Seen by… took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 76 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 111 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1546 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1988, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: October 26, 1988
- Runtime: 1h 16m