The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (1964) Review in 2025
A French musical romantic drama film that tells the story of two young lovers, Geneviève and Guy, who are separated by war and social class, and the struggles they face in their relationship.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for family viewing, but it may not be suitable for very young children due to some mature themes and emotions.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is highly recommended for fans of French New Wave cinema, romantic dramas, and musicals. It's a must-see for anyone who loves beautiful music, stunning cinematography, and poignant storytelling.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film follows Geneviève, a young woman who falls in love with Guy, a young man who is about to be drafted into the French army. Despite their love for each other, they are separated by war and social class, and Geneviève is forced to marry a wealthy man, Pierre. Meanwhile, Guy is captured by the Germans and imprisoned, and Geneviève is left to navigate her complicated relationships with both men.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is a beautiful and poignant portrayal of young love and its struggles, with a unique and memorable narrative structure that blends music, dance, and drama.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Catherine Deneuve and Nino Castelnuovo delivering memorable performances that bring the characters to life.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Catherine Deneuve and Nino Castelnuovo delivering standout performances as the two young lovers.
direction9.00/10
Jacques Demy's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the emotional nuances of the story.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is beautiful and evocative, with a focus on capturing the beauty of the French countryside and the emotional intensity of the characters.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's unique narrative structure, beautiful music, and stunning cinematography make it a standout film. The performances by Catherine Deneuve and Nino Castelnuovo are also memorable and impactful.
Cons
The movie's pacing can be slow at times, and some viewers may find the musical numbers to be overly sentimental. However, these are minor complaints in an otherwise excellent film.
Notable Quotes
"Je suis désolée, Guy. Je suis désolée de ne pas être capable de t'aider."
"Je t'aime, Guy. Je t'aime plus que tout au monde."
