Un Chien Andalou (1929) Review in 2025
Un Chien Andalou is a surrealist short film that defies traditional narrative structures and pushes the boundaries of cinematic storytelling.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to its explicit and disturbing content.
CineReview Recommendation
Un Chien Andalou is a must-see for fans of surrealist and experimental cinema, but may not be suitable for all audiences due to its explicit content.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film follows a series of abstract and dreamlike sequences, including a famous scene where a woman's eyeball is sliced open with a razor, that explore the human psyche and the nature of reality.
Review Details
story6.00/10
The film's narrative is intentionally fragmented and open to interpretation, making it challenging to follow and understand. However, this also allows for multiple viewings and interpretations.
acting5.00/10
The acting in the film is often stiff and unnatural, which adds to the sense of artificiality and surrealism. However, this can also make the characters feel more like puppets or mannequins.
characters4.00/10
The characters in the film are more like archetypes or symbols, rather than fully fleshed-out individuals. Their motivations and actions are often unclear or ambiguous.
direction9.00/10
Luis Buñuel's direction is masterful, using a range of techniques to create a dreamlike atmosphere and challenge the viewer's perceptions. His use of montage and editing is particularly noteworthy.
cinematography8.00/10
The film's cinematography is striking, with a range of unusual and innovative techniques used to create a sense of unease and disorientation. The use of shadows and lighting is particularly effective.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Un Chien Andalou is a groundbreaking and influential film that continues to challenge and inspire audiences today. Its innovative use of montage and editing, combined with its striking cinematography and dreamlike atmosphere, make it a must-see for fans of surrealist and experimental cinema.
Cons
The film's narrative is often difficult to follow, and the characters can feel more like archetypes or symbols than fully fleshed-out individuals. Additionally, the explicit content may not be suitable for all audiences.
Notable Quotes
"The most obvious thing is to avoid doing it."
