Belle de Jour (1967) Review in 2025
Belle de Jour is a psychological drama film that tells the story of a housewife who leads a double life, exploring themes of desire, identity, and the constraints of societal expectations.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to mature themes, nudity, and explicit content.
CineReview Recommendation
Belle de Jour is a thought-provoking and visually stunning film that is worth watching for fans of psychological drama and thrillers. However, it may not be suitable for all audiences due to mature themes and explicit content.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The film follows Severine Serizy, a beautiful and seemingly happy housewife, who secretly works as a prostitute in a Parisian brothel, leading to a complex exploration of her desires, relationships, and sense of self.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and thought-provoking, exploring themes of desire, identity, and the constraints of societal expectations. However, it can be slow-paced at times, which may test the viewer's patience.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, particularly Catherine Deneuve, who delivers a nuanced and captivating performance as Severine. The supporting actors are also excellent, adding to the film's overall impact.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, particularly Severine, who is a fascinating and nuanced protagonist. The supporting characters are also well-acted and add depth to the story.
direction8.50/10
Luis Buñuel's direction is masterful, using a combination of visual metaphors, symbolism, and subtle humor to create a unique and captivating cinematic experience.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with a mix of vibrant colors, elegant settings, and clever camera angles that add to the film's visual appeal.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Belle de Jour is a masterpiece of cinematic storytelling, with a thought-provoking story, complex characters, and stunning cinematography. It's a must-see for fans of psychological drama and thrillers.
Cons
The film can be slow-paced at times, and some viewers may find the themes and content too mature or explicit.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a prostitute, I'm a woman who's been reduced to a mere object."
"The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and let it come in."
