Mélo

Preserving the theatrical conventions of Henry Bernstein's 1929 melodrama, Resnais transforms it into a stunning piece of cinema. Combining stage lighting, enclosed sets and even interval curtains with compelling editing and fluid camera movement, this tale of romantic triangle about a violinist's wife who falls for her husband's celebrated recitalist friend is attuned to the emotional turbulence of its protagonists. Reassembling the four actors in Love Unto Death, Resnais extracts swooning passion, pain and cruelty from the vicissitudes of life underscored by enchanting Brahms duets. 

César Awards: Best Actress and Best Supporting Actor