Cast
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Catherine Demongeot
as Zazie
Philippe Noiret
as Oncle Gabriel
Hubert Deschamps
as Turandot
Carla Marlier
as Albertine
Annie Fratellini
as Mado
Vittorio Caprioli
as Trouscaillon
Yvonne Clech
as Madame Mouaque
Odette Piquet
as La Mère de Zazie
Nicolas Bataille
as Fédor
Antoine Roblot
as Charles
Marc Doelnitz
as M. Coquetti
Jacques Gheusi
as Le Gérant
Louis Lalanne
as L'Amant de Jeanne
Christine Howard
as
Jacques Dufilho
as Ferdinand Grédoux
Crew
Director
- Louis Malle
Producer
- Louis Malle
- Napoléon Murat
- Jean-François Malle
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Zazie dans le Métro represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Fantasy 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 Louis Malle 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 1960, 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 Zazie dans le Métro took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 152 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 1036 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1960, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Zazie dans le Métro shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Porch Pirates, which focuses more on action than character development, Zazie dans le Métro subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like La Chinoise and Russian Dolls explore similar territory, Zazie dans le Métro 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 28, 1960
- Runtime: 1h 33m
Where to Watch
