Diva + Introduction by Martin McCabe
Two tapes, two Parisian mob killers, one corrupt policeman, an opera fan, a teenage thief, and the coolest philosopher all twist their way through an intricate and stylish French-language thriller.
Director: JEAN-JACQUES BENEIX
Cast includes: wilhelmenia fernandez, frederic andrei
Introduced by Martin McCabe
115 MINS/ 1981 / FRANCE / subtitles
A young Parisian mail courier, Jules, is content with his bohemian lifestyle, his circle of friends and listening to opera, particularly one exceptional American diva who refuses to be recorded. So enamoured is he with her, he makes an illegal recording at a concert. When the tape is confused with one implicating a corrupt police chief with the mob, he inadvertently becomes the target of two hit men and must use all his ingenuity to survive in this riveting tale of personal obsession.
Praised by critics and audiences for its stunning visual style, exquisite cinematography and music, which contribute to a unique, atmospheric, sensual and surreal cinematic experience.
Diva is particularly notable for its stylish New-Wave production values and extended motorcycle chase scene. It is considered a zeitgeist-defining thriller and a landmark film in 20th century French cinema, effectively initiating the French 'Cinema du Look' movement in the 1980s and inspiring such directors as Luc Besson and Leo Carax.
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