The Rules of the Game

I was impressed by the intricate staging, wonderful camera moves, and a plot that juggles many characters in many different configurations without ever leaving the viewer feeling lost. And it was funny. And I share Renoir’s apparent contempt for the idle rich… though, to be fair, he doesn’t really spare any of the characters (except Octave, played by Renoir himself).  I would say that I liked it and respected it, and yet I don’t have much desire to see it again. But I’m now more interested in seeing The Grand Illusion than I was before.  Rating: 7

IMDb

Addendum 10/20/03: After further reflection, I find myself a bit more smitten with the movie, and looking forward to the Criterion DVD.  Rating: 8

Addendum 7/5/12: I never did get that DVD, and I never got around to rewatching it.  It’s one of those that I feel I really should give a second look, but can’t seem to work up the enthusiasm to do it.  Maybe someday.

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