Richard Linklater’s latest film, Nouvelle Vague, pays homage to Jean-Luc Godard’s groundbreaking feature, À Bout de Souffle (Breathless), and captures the heart and soul of a pivotal moment in cinematic history. Having immersed himself in Godard’s illustrious career while working on a comprehensive two-part retrospective, Linklater has crafted a film that feels like a reunion with the legendary director’s formative years.
Nouvelle Vague revisits the creative environment of the influential Parisian film journal Cahiers du Cinéma, where Godard, alongside contemporaries like François Truffaut and Jacques Rivette, shaped the French new wave movement. This movement sought to infuse cinema with an intellectual vibe rooted in the authenticity and messiness of life. Through its deliberate use of improvisation, real locations, and a looser narrative structure, original works like Breathless forever changed the art of filmmaking, and Linklater’s film pays tribute to that audacious spirit.
In his interpretation, Linklater has chosen actors who strikingly resemble the original figures from the late 1950s. Notably, Guillaume Marbeck portrays Godard, with a physical likeness that mirrors the director’s unique features, including his iconic shades and distinct profile. The carefully selected cast also includes Adrien Rouyard as Truffaut and Jonas Marmy as Rivette, effectively bringing to life the intense yet spirited discussions that surrounded the creation of Breathless during its production in 1959.
To authentically capture the era, Linklater shot Nouvelle Vague in grainy monochrome film, utilizing the 1.37:1 aspect ratio customary at the time. Primarily in French with English subtitles, the film immerses viewers in the atmosphere of a bygone era, reminiscent of watching a Godard classic in an arthouse cinema during the early 1960s.
The film appeals even to those unfamiliar with Breathless or Godard’s impact on cinema. One viewer, who had no prior knowledge of the material, found herself captivated by the stylish costumes, vibrant jazz score, and lively depiction of Paris, reflecting the infectious energy of Godard’s directorial style.
This rejuvenation of mid-20th-century Parisian culture, alongside the presence of smoking—a hallmark of the time—adds to the film’s charm. Godard’s love for cigarettes is elegantly portrayed, featuring characters who smoke with a certain sophistication that is both entertaining and reflective of that golden age.
In stark contrast, Linklater’s concurrent release, Blue Moon, presents a more somber exploration of show business, dealing with the life of lyricist Lorenz Hart. This film serves as a melancholic counterpoint to the spirited Nouvelle Vague, showcasing Linklater’s versatility as a filmmaker.
Interestingly, some critics argue that Nouvelle Vague exceeds the brilliance of Breathless itself, highlighting the former’s ability to capture the essence of creative freedom that defined the new wave. Godard’s original work, while iconic, was forged through an improvisational process that resulted in an unconventional script, with early scenes often developed spontaneously. This groundbreaking approach—shooting with handheld cameras and allowing for real-time spontaneity—set a new standard for cinema.
Nouvelle Vague stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Godard and the French new wave, celebrating the vibrancy and innovation that continues to inspire contemporary filmmakers today. It invites viewers into a nostalgic yet refreshing experience, reminding us of the power of cinema to evoke emotional connections across time.