Film Review: Last Tango in Paris

Review of: Last Tango in Paris (1972)

Film:

Bernardo Bertolucci

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Reviewed by: David M. Brown

Rating:

4

On June 23, 2013Last modified:June 23, 2013

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Summary:

Last Tango in Paris is a well-acted drama but not one that will be everyone.

More DetailsAbout Last Tango in Paris (1972)In Bernardo Bertolucci’s controversial adult drama, a middle-aged American (Marlon Brando), whose wife has just committed suicide, meets a young French girl (Maria Schneider) when they both view an apartment in Paris at the same time. They begin a strange, anonymous sexual relationship in the empty apartment, agreeing not to divulge any personal information to each other. Bertolucci and Brando were both nominated for Academy Awards.

Starring: Marlon Brando, Maria Schneider, Maria Michi, Giovanna Galletti, Gitt Magrini

Directed by: Bernardo Bertolucci

Runtime: 124 minutes

Studio: MGM Home Entertainment

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Review: Last Tango in Paris

Bernardo Bertolucci’s romance drama caused a lot of controversy when it was first released but it is considered something of a masterpiece today. It tells the story of Paul (Marlon Brando) who is wandering the streets of Paris at the outset in tears. His wife has committed suicide and Paul is lost in his mourning. When looking to rent an apartment, Paul meets Jeanne (Maria Schneider) who is interested in renting the same apartment. The two begin an affair based on rules Paul lays out that they meet in the apartment only, do not exchange names about themselves or anyone else and don’t discuss their histories. Sometimes tender, sometimes violent, Paul and Jeanne continue their affair but gradually things change for Paul as he seeks closure in his life.

While Paul is in mourning for his late wife, Jeanne divides her time between her affair at the apartment and filming on the streets with her boyfriend, Tom (Jean-Pierre Leaud). Though Jeanne loves her fiance she is frequently drawn back to the apartment to see Paul despite some of his actions being tantamount to abusive. Inevitably they get to know one another and find it difficult being apart. The question is what will become of the lovers? Will Paul and Jeanne end up together? Will she be with Tom instead?

I can see why Bertolucci’s film would have been shocking when it was first released. A couple of moments make for uncomfortable viewing even today but this is still a fascinating study of two very different people whose unions leads to both pleasure and pain. Oscar-nominated Brando is excellent in the lead while Schneider is striking as Jeanne. The sex scenes will seem somewhat tame by today’s standards but the film is about much more than the intimacy between Paul and Jeanne. Also considered an art movie, Last Tango in Paris has many silent and ponderous moments but at no point does it diminish the overall experience.

Last Tango in Paris is a well-acted drama but not one that will be everyone. Boasting some delightful shots of Paris and and having two intriguing characters at the heart of the story, this one is worth considering despite the controversy.

Verdict: 4/5

(Film source: reviewer’s own copy)

About the Author:

I was born in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, England and have always been a bookworm and enjoyed creative writing at school. In 1999 I created the Elencheran Chronicles and have been writing ever since. My first novel, Fezariu's Epiphany, was published in May 2011. When not writing I'm a lover of films, games, books and blogging. I now live in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, with my wife, Donna, and our six cats - Kain, Razz, Buggles, Charlie, Bilbo and Frodo.

David M. Brown – who has written 725 posts on Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dave.

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