Was the French New Wave Political?

Whether the French New Wave was political is a question that requires a nuanced examination. Here we will delve into the historical and artistic context of the movement, its influence on French cinema, and its real or perceived political leanings.

Defining Political within the French New Wave

The term "political" in the context of the French New Wave is multifaceted. It can be interpreted as a rebellion against the established cinéema de papa (father film) and the rigid structure of French cinema. Critics argue that this element of rebellion aligns with political ideals of challenging the status quo and questioning norms.

However, the primary driving force behind the French New Wave was more about artistic experimentation and a desire to break away from conventional cinematic techniques. This desire manifested in a thematic exploration of sexual freedoms and personal liberties, as well as the social upheaval of the 1960s.

Leftist Influences and Marxist Approaches

Many of the key figures associated with the French New Wave, such as Agnès Varda, Chris Marker, and Alain Resnais, had leftist political views and produced films that critiqued the status quo. Their works often included explicit political commentary, reflecting the broader cultural and political landscape of the time.

As a collective, the French New Wave did not uniformly adopt a clear political stance. However, many filmmakers were deeply influenced by Marxist thought and sought to explore societal issues through their art. Jean-Luc Godard, for example, whose work is often associated with political activism, made a film called Vivre sa vie (1962), which is rich with political undertones and commentary on the struggles of working-class women.

Key Filmmakers and Their Political Impact

Agnès Varda is one of the pioneering figures of the French New Wave, known for her politically charged films that often challenged the social norms of her time. Her film Cléo partiront (1962) is an exploration of political and social issues through the lens of a music hall performer.

Chris Marker, while not primarily a feature film director, had a significant impact on the French New Wave through his film poésie films, which often dealt with political and social themes. His work, such as Level Five (1963), reflects a critical examination of political and cultural narratives.

Alain Resnais is another influential figure, known for films like Nuit et brouillard (1955), a documentary that brought an intense political dimension to the examination of the Holocaust. His involvement in the French New Wave was marked by a desire to push the boundaries of filmmaking and exploration of socio-political issues.

These filmmakers, among others, contributed to the political and social discussions of their time, making the French New Wave a movement that was not only artistic but also deeply political.

Conclusion

While the French New Wave was fundamentally an artistic revolution, it cannot be dismissed as completely apolitical. The movement was marked by a willingness to challenge established norms and explore new forms of storytelling, often infused with political and social commentary. Through their works, the key figures of the French New Wave were able to push the boundaries of cinematic expression, making the movement a significant chapter in the history of both film and political thought.