Sick in bed for the last couple of days, I have been watching a lot of movies. 1971's 'Le Mans' was just dumb. Two hours of nothing happening -- a lot of engine noise and cars racing around...oh, and the odd crash thrown in for good measure. But basically it's a movie with no plot, no dialogue and no reason to watch it.
Steve McQueen plays one of the driver's and in true French film style, the director has him spend the two hours walking through crowds -- the only one in focus -- getting in and out of his car, hanging in his trailer and taking his helmut off and on. And the music! Remember that French-movie-type of tuneless, glum, morose stuff? Think 'A Man and a Woman', think 'The Unbrellas of Cherbourg', think 'Jules and Jim' and you've got it. They still play that crap in Quebec all the time. Awful.
As to any interpersonal relationships or romance? Nothing. The female lead is played by someone I have never heard of before or since. Even starring in a movie with the greatest box-office dreamboat of the time could not rescue her from oblivion. Having lost her husband in a crash earlier, her character spends her scenes mooning around, pouting, looking sad and lost, staring into the horizon. Steve tries to befriend and comfort her, but she basically rudely gives him the French shoulder. The French are like that, so that part was authentic.
So, if you like the sound of cars and if you like watching closeups of mechanics changing tires, fixing suspensions and replacing brakes, you'll love this one.
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In 1971, Freddie Laker was offering $100 each way flights to London, England. Like many, I decided to hitch-hike my way through Europe.
ReplyDeleteRobbed in Paris, I wanted out of France and journeyed to Geneva Switzerland. That is where I saw "Le Mans".
I saw parts of it the other day on one of the movie channels. You're accurate in your description of the film but I will always remember it as 106 minutes of not having to struggle to understand or be understood, armed only with high school French.
I hope you're feeling better.
So sorry to hear your not feeling well. Good thing I could not venture there for Easter.
ReplyDeleteActually my left eye (sounds like the movie my left foot!!) - has been giving me a lot of problems. Never want to burden others with health issues. Look forward to seeing you June 4th
did you say?? Have a wonderful Easter with B
daughter Rosanne, and your new boyfriend!!!!
Grandson. Bless you and yours, B.A.M.F.
No, coming to T.O. August 13-21 with Susanne (not Rosanne) and Reed to visit son, Gene. We should go to Mass and then lunch in the Beaches again. Loved that!
ReplyDeleteHope your eye sorts itself out.