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Maison du Bonheur

Maison du Bonheur (2018)

Aug 17, 2018 1h 2m Documentary

When asked to make a documentary about her friend’s mother—a Parisian astrologer named Juliane—the filmmaker sets off for Montmartre with a Bolex to craft a portrait of an infectiously exuberant personality and the pre-war apartment she’s called home for 50 years.

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Directed by Sofia Bohdanowicz

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Sofia Bohdanowicz
Producer
  • Calvin Thomas
  • Sofia Bohdanowicz

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Thematic Analysis

Maison du Bonheur represents a fascinating example of Documentary 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 Sofia Bohdanowicz 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 2018, 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 Maison du Bonheur took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 62 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 118 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 2018, when this film is released:
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Maison du Bonheur shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Bob Marley: The Making of a Legend, which focuses more on action than character development, Maison du Bonheur offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Faya Dayi and Communion explore similar territory, Maison du Bonheur 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 17, 2018
  • Runtime: 1h 2m

Where to Watch

Criterion Channel
DocAlliance Films

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