Bertrand Tavernier

One of those rare masters who can alter our prejudices between the beginning and the end of a film, Bertrand Tavernier changes the world, one viewer at a time. He rejects traditional form and replaces it with emotions, via the use of rhythm, tone, the everyday, and especially historical periods in transition. Martin Scorsese has called Bertrand Tavernier France's leading director. The New Republic referred to him as "one of the best directors alive." Despite his skill and some critical acclaim, Tavernier is often misunderstood. He receives little of the fanfare in the United States that European critics give avant-garde directors. His profound originality has received little attention for at least two reasons: his films are deceptively realistic, and he does not proclaim a specific doctrine. Still, his films inevitably carry his stamp. This work explores that uniqueness. The first work on Tavernier written in English, this book examines ten feature films that characterize Tavernier as an auteur. This book is essential reading for all of those interested in French film, independent filmmakers, students or teachers of film history, and, of course, fans of Tavernier.