Claire Denis is a French filmmaker known for her distinct visual style and her explorations of themes such as colonialism, identity, and human relationships. Her films often employ non-linear narratives and poetic imagery to evoke complex emotions and questions about the human experience.
Some of her most notable films include:
“Beau Travail” (1999): This film is a loose adaptation of Herman Melville’s novella “Billy Budd” and explores themes of masculinity, power, and desire.
Set in a French Foreign Legion outpost in Djibouti, the film follows a group of soldiers as they engage in physical and psychological tests of their strength and endurance.
“35 Shots of Rum” (2008): This film is a tender and intimate exploration of the relationships between a widowed father and his daughter and their close friends and neighbors in a Parisian suburb.
The film is characterized by its understated performances and its attention to the subtle emotional dynamics that exist between the characters.
“White Material” (2009): Set in an unnamed African country on the brink of civil war, “White Material” tells the story of a French coffee plantation owner who refuses to leave her land despite the growing danger around her.
The film explores themes of colonialism, privilege, and the clash of cultures.
“Let the Sunshine In” (2017): Starring Juliette Binoche, this film is a humorous and touching exploration of a middle-aged woman’s search for love and connection.
The film is characterized by its naturalistic performances and its focus on the emotional complexities of romantic relationships.
Best Claire Denis Films
These films showcase Claire Denis’ ability to create poetic, deeply emotional works that challenge viewers’ preconceptions and assumptions about the human experience.
1. Chocolat (1988)
“Chocolat” is a 1988 drama film directed by Claire Denis. The film tells the story of a young Frenchman named Francis (played by Isaach De Bankolé) who travels to the Ivory Coast to find work on a cocoa plantation.
There, he meets the plantation owner’s daughter, Aimée (played by Giulia Boschi), and the two begin a complex and often fraught relationship.
The film explores issues of race, class, and colonialism, depicting the power dynamics that exist between the white plantation owners and the black workers who toil under them.
It is known for its visually stunning cinematography, which captures the lush beauty of the Ivory Coast, and for its deeply emotional and intimate portrayal of its characters.
“Chocolat” received critical acclaim upon its release, with many critics praising Denis’ direction and the performances of the cast.
The film was particularly noted for its sensitive treatment of the complex issues it explores, and for its refusal to offer easy answers or platitudes. It is considered one of the most important films of Claire Denis’ career, and a key work in the tradition of postcolonial cinema.
![Chocolat [Import anglais]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41+dbu6J9nL.jpg)
2. S’en fout la mort (1990)
“S’en fout la mort,” also known as “No Fear, No Die,” is a 1990 French drama film directed by Claire Denis. The film explores themes of racism and immigration through the relationship between two African immigrants, Dah and Jocelyn, who train roosters for illegal cockfighting in Paris.
Here are three reasons why you should watch “S’en fout la mort”:
An exploration of complex social issues: The film provides a nuanced exploration of complex social issues, including racism, immigration, and poverty.
Through the characters of Dah and Jocelyn, we are offered a glimpse into the struggles faced by immigrants and minorities in France, as well as the ways in which these struggles intersect with issues of class and economic inequality.
A visually stunning film: As with many of Claire Denis’s films, “S’en fout la mort” is visually stunning, with beautifully composed shots and a striking use of color and light. The film’s dreamlike, impressionistic style creates a sense of poetry and beauty that contrasts with the harsh realities of the characters’ lives.
A powerful and emotionally resonant story: “S’en fout la mort” is a powerful and emotionally resonant story that offers a poignant and insightful exploration of the human experience.
vThe film’s portrayal of the relationship between Dah and Jocelyn is particularly moving, offering a tender and heartfelt depiction of the bonds that can form between people in the face of adversity.
Overall, “S’en fout la mort” is a deeply affecting and thought-provoking film that offers a powerful exploration of social issues, a visually stunning experience, and a poignant and emotionally resonant story.
If you’re a fan of Claire Denis’s work or are looking for a challenging and insightful film that explores complex themes of race, immigration, and class, “S’en fout la mort” is definitely worth a watch.
3. I Can’t Sleep (1994)
“I Can’t Sleep” is a 1994 French drama film directed by Claire Denis. The film tells the story of several characters living in the Belleville neighborhood of Paris, whose lives intersect in unexpected ways.
The film explores themes of identity, loneliness, and the search for connection in a large, impersonal city.
The characters in the film are struggling with their own personal demons, whether it’s a transsexual who is looking for love, an artist who is haunted by his past, or a serial killer who is stalking the city streets.
“I Can’t Sleep” is notable for its atmospheric and moody tone, which perfectly captures the sense of alienation and isolation that many people feel in modern cities.
The film is also visually stunning, with beautiful cinematography that captures the beauty and decay of the city.
At its heart, “I Can’t Sleep” is a film about the human condition and the search for meaning and connection in a world that can often feel cold and indifferent.
The film is an insightful and thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of modern life, and a testament to Claire Denis’s talent as a filmmaker.
4. À propos de Nice, la suite (1995)
“À propos de Nice, la suite” is a 1995 French documentary film directed by Jean Vigo and co-directed by Boris Kaufman, the cinematographer of the original film, “À propos de Nice” (1930).
The film was created as a tribute to Jean Vigo, who died at the young age of 29 in 1934, just four years after the release of “À propos de Nice”. “À propos de Nice, la suite” is a follow-up to the original film and uses footage that was shot by Vigo but not used in the original film.
The new footage is combined with interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and other archival material to create a retrospective look at Vigo’s life and work.
The film is notable for its use of visual poetry and social commentary, much like the original film. It explores the themes of poverty, class, and societal inequality through a mix of documentary and artistic techniques.
The film’s use of sound and image to create a powerful and emotional effect on the viewer is also notable.
“À propos de Nice, la suite” was well-received by critics and is considered an important work in the history of French cinema. It is a fitting tribute to Jean Vigo, one of the most innovative and influential filmmakers of the early 20th century.
![The Complete Jean Vigo (A propos de Nice / Taris / Zero de conduite / L'atalante) (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41L-WDQGMAL.jpg)
5. Nénette et Boni (1996)
“Nénette et Boni” is a 1996 French drama film directed by Claire Denis. The film follows the story of Boniface “Boni” Louiset, a troubled young man who runs away from home to avoid dealing with his father’s death.
Boni, who works at a pizza parlor in Marseille, seeks out his estranged sister Nénette, who is pregnant and living alone in a small apartment. As the two reconnect, they must confront their complicated past and their strained relationship.
The film is characterized by its atmospheric visuals, poetic sensibility, and contemplative pace. Claire Denis creates a vivid and textured portrait of Marseille and its inhabitants, imbuing the film with a rich sense of place and character.
The performances of Gregoire Colin as Boni and Alice Houri as Nénette are both naturalistic and affecting, capturing the nuances and complexities of sibling relationships.
“Nénette et Boni” is considered one of Claire Denis’ early masterpieces and a hallmark of her distinctive style. The film explores themes of family, memory, and desire, and showcases the director’s ability to evoke complex emotions through her use of imagery and sound.
6. Beau travail (1999)
“Beau Travail” is a 1999 French film directed by Claire Denis, loosely based on the Herman Melville novel “Billy Budd”. The film is a haunting exploration of masculinity, identity, and desire, set against the backdrop of the French Foreign Legion in Djibouti.
The film follows the story of Sergeant Galoup (played by Denis Lavant), a veteran soldier who is passed over for a promotion and begins to spiral into a jealous obsession with his commanding officer, Bruno Forestier (played by Michel Subor).
The film is known for its dreamlike atmosphere, beautiful cinematography, and evocative use of music and dance.
“Beau Travail” is often cited as one of the greatest films of the 1990s, and a masterpiece of contemporary French cinema. Its exploration of themes of desire, masculinity, and identity have made it a touchstone for queer cinema, while its stunning visuals and hypnotic soundtrack have made it a cult classic among cinephiles.
The film is a meditation on the beauty and brutality of human nature, and a haunting portrait of a man consumed by his own demons.
![Beau Travail(1999) (Criterion Collection) UK Only [Blu-ray] [2020]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41N3wia-svL.jpg)
7. Trouble Every Day (2001)
“Trouble Every Day” is a 2001 French horror film written and directed by Claire Denis. The film stars Vincent Gallo, Tricia Vessey, and Béatrice Dalle, and tells the story of two American newlyweds on their honeymoon in Paris.
The husband, Shane (played by Gallo), is a scientist researching a rare medical condition that causes extreme sexual desire and cannibalism.
Meanwhile, a former lover of Shane’s, Coré (played by Dalle), roams the streets of Paris in search of human prey.
The film is known for its disturbing and explicit content, which includes scenes of violence, gore, and sexual activity. It is also notable for its stylized cinematography and atmospheric soundtrack, which create a sense of tension and unease throughout.
“Trouble Every Day” divided critics upon its release, with some praising its bold and audacious approach to horror, while others criticized its graphic content and disjointed storytelling.
Nevertheless, the film has gained a cult following over the years and is considered a key work in the horror genre.
8. Friday Night (2002)
“Friday Night” is a 2002 French romantic drama film directed by Claire Denis. The film takes place over the course of one night in Paris and follows the chance encounter between a woman named Laure and a man named Jean.
Laure is a young woman who is about to move in with her boyfriend, but she is unsure if she is ready for such a commitment.
Jean is a middle-aged man who is dealing with the recent breakup of his marriage. As the night progresses, the two of them begin to connect on a deep and intimate level, sharing their fears, desires, and dreams with each other.
The film is notable for its beautifully understated and atmospheric style, which perfectly captures the mood and ambiance of Paris at night.
The film is also notable for the strong performances of its leads, Valerie Lemercier as Laure and Vincent Lindon as Jean, who both bring a sense of authenticity and vulnerability to their roles.
At its core, “Friday Night” is a film about the power of human connection and the transformative nature of unexpected encounters. The film explores themes of intimacy, desire, and the complexity of human relationships, making it a moving and thought-provoking experience.
![Friday Night [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41EEBSQVCYL.jpg)
9. Ten Minutes Older: The Cello (2002)
“Ten Minutes Older: The Cello” is a 2002 film made up of a series of ten short films by various directors, each of which is exactly ten minutes long and inspired by the sound of a cello.
The film was produced to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Cannes Film Festival’s Directors’ Fortnight section.
The films in “Ten Minutes Older: The Cello” explore a variety of themes and styles, but are all linked by the sound of the cello, which is used in various ways to create mood, emotion, and atmosphere.
The directors who contributed to the film include Bernardo Bertolucci, Claire Denis, Jean-Luc Godard, and Michael Radford, among others.
The film is notable for its experimental and avant-garde approach to filmmaking, as well as for its use of music as a driving force for narrative and emotional impact.
The themes explored in the film range from the personal to the political, and the ten-minute format allows for a concise yet powerful exploration of each director’s vision.
“Ten Minutes Older: The Cello” was well-received by critics and is considered a unique and innovative work in the realm of short films. It is a testament to the power of the cello as a musical instrument and a symbol of emotion and creativity.
![Ten Minutes Older: The Trumpet / The Cello [PAL]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51cKRn9oCxL.jpg)
10. The Intruder (2004)
“The Intruder” is a 2004 French drama film directed by Claire Denis. The film tells the story of Louis Trebor, a middle-aged man who is desperately seeking a heart transplant.
Trebor is estranged from his son and lives a solitary life in a rural French town, where he spends his days obsessively preparing for his surgery and reflecting on his past.
As the film unfolds, Trebor becomes increasingly entangled in a web of relationships and encounters with the people around him, including a former lover and her son, an illegal immigrant, and a young woman who works in a local factory.
These interactions force Trebor to confront his own mortality and the ways in which he has lived his life.
“The Intruder” is characterized by its elliptical narrative structure and its use of dreamlike imagery and sound.
The film explores themes of aging, mortality, and identity, and presents a nuanced and complex portrait of a man grappling with his own mortality. The performance of Michel Subor as Trebor is a standout, imbuing the character with a sense of melancholy and vulnerability.
“The Intruder” is considered one of Claire Denis’ most enigmatic and challenging films, and is praised for its poetic and provocative approach to storytelling.
The film invites viewers to grapple with complex questions about the human experience and the ways in which we confront our own mortality.
![The Intruder ( 2004 ) ( L' Intrus ) [ NON-USA FORMAT, PAL, Reg.0 Import - United Kingdom ]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51IznqbxMLL.jpg)
11. 35 Shots of Rum (2008)
35 Shots of Rum” is a 2008 French film directed by Claire Denis. The film tells the story of a widowed train driver, Lionel (played by Alex Descas), and his daughter, Joséphine (played by Mati Diop), who live in a close-knit community in a Parisian suburb.
The film explores the themes of family, love, and aging, as well as the complexities of interpersonal relationships.
The film is known for its visual poetry, use of silence and subtle gestures to convey the emotional complexity of its characters, and its depiction of ordinary life.
“35 Shots of Rum” is widely considered to be one of Claire Denis’ most accomplished works, and is often cited as a prime example of her unique filmmaking style.
The film’s exploration of themes such as familial love, loss, and aging has resonated with audiences and critics alike, making it a much-beloved and deeply emotional work of cinema.
![35 Shots Of Rum [DVD] [2008]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51WEd1vK05L.jpg)
14. White Material (2009)
“White Material” is a 2009 French film directed by Claire Denis. The film tells the story of Maria Vial, a coffee plantation owner in an unnamed African country on the brink of civil war.
As violence and chaos break out around her, Maria stubbornly refuses to leave her farm, clinging to the hope that she can somehow save her crop and her way of life.
The film is known for its striking cinematography, which captures the lush beauty of the African landscape as well as the brutal reality of the conflict.
It is also notable for its powerful performances, particularly by Isabelle Huppert in the lead role, as well as its nuanced exploration of colonialism, race, and identity.
“White Material” received critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising Denis’ skillful direction and the film’s haunting and evocative atmosphere. It was also nominated for several awards, including the César Award for Best Film.
The film has been described as a powerful and thought-provoking work that offers a complex and nuanced look at the legacy of colonialism and its impact on both individuals and communities
![White Material (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41fwX+qnS8L.jpg)
15. Bastards (2013)
“Bastards” is a 2013 French drama film directed by Claire Denis. The film tells the story of Marco, a sea captain who returns to Paris to help his sister and her family after her husband commits suicide.
As he investigates his brother-in-law’s death, he uncovers a web of dark secrets and corruption that threatens to destroy his family and everything he holds dear.
The film is known for its intense and disturbing atmosphere, as well as its unflinching portrayal of violence and trauma. The film features strong performances from its cast, including Vincent Lindon as Marco, and is notable for its haunting cinematography and sound design.
At its core, “Bastards” is a film about the destructive power of secrets and the lengths that people will go to protect themselves and their loved ones.
The film explores themes of family, guilt, and the corruption of power, and is a powerful and thought-provoking examination of the darker aspects of human nature.
While the film is difficult to watch at times, it is a testament to Claire Denis’s talent as a filmmaker, and her ability to create films that are both challenging and deeply affecting.
![Bastards [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51nOf4lSLuL.jpg)
16. Let the Sunshine In (2017)
“Let the Sunshine In” is a 2017 French romantic drama film directed by Claire Denis and starring Juliette Binoche. The film follows the character of Isabelle, a middle-aged artist who is searching for love and fulfillment in her life.
The film explores the complexities of romantic relationships and the various obstacles that can prevent two people from finding happiness together.
Isabelle’s journey is characterized by a series of encounters with men who represent different aspects of love and relationships, each of which challenges her preconceptions and expectations.
The film is notable for its strong performances, particularly by Juliette Binoche, and its nuanced exploration of the emotional landscape of its characters.
The film is also notable for its use of color and light to create a dreamlike and poetic atmosphere that reflects the emotional states of the characters.
“Let the Sunshine In” was well-received by critics and is considered one of Claire Denis’s best films. It is a thoughtful and introspective work that explores the complexities of human relationships and the search for love and fulfillment in a nuanced and compelling way.
17. High Life (2018)
“High Life” is a 2018 science fiction film directed by Claire Denis. The film tells the story of a group of death row inmates who are sent on a dangerous mission into deep space, with the promise of having their sentences commuted if they succeed.
The crew is led by Monte, a stoic and reserved man played by Robert Pattinson, who is struggling to come to terms with the loss of his infant daughter.
As the crew travels further into the void, they begin to experience strange and disturbing phenomena, including isolation, physical and emotional degradation, and encounters with a mysterious energy source that seems to have a profound effect on their psyches.
As the mission begins to unravel, Monte is forced to confront his own past and the nature of his own mortality.
“High Life” is characterized by its striking visuals, haunting score, and elliptical narrative structure. The film explores themes of memory, identity, and the nature of human connection, while also confronting the harsh realities of life in deep space.
The performances of the ensemble cast, which includes Juliette Binoche, André Benjamin, and Mia Goth, are all exceptional, capturing the psychological complexities of their characters.
“High Life” is considered one of Claire Denis’ most challenging and thought-provoking films, and is praised for its bold and visionary approach to science fiction.
The film invites viewers to contemplate the mysteries of the cosmos and the human experience, while also serving as a powerful meditation on the fragility and resilience of the human spirit.
3 Characteristics of Claire Denis Films
Claire Denis is a French film director known for her unique style and unconventional approach to storytelling. Here are three characteristics of her films:
Poetic and sensory storytelling: Denis’ films are known for their poetic, evocative, and often dreamlike atmosphere. She often uses non-linear narratives, impressionistic imagery, and suggestive editing techniques to create a sensory experience for the audience.
Exploration of complex themes: Denis’ films often explore complex themes such as identity, race, gender, desire, and power. She is interested in the nuances and contradictions of human relationships and often depicts them in a realistic and nuanced manner.
Unconventional storytelling: Denis frequently subverts traditional storytelling techniques, often blurring the lines between dream and reality, and challenging the audience’s expectations. Her films often have ambiguous endings, leaving the interpretation up to the viewer. She also often employs non-professional actors and improvisational techniques to capture raw and authentic performances.
3 Reasons Why You Should Watch Claire Denis Films
Claire Denis is a French film director known for her visually stunning and thematically complex films. Here are three reasons why you should watch her films:
Unique Perspective: Claire Denis’s films offer a unique perspective on a wide range of topics, including colonialism, sexuality, and human relationships. Her work often explores the complexities of human experience, and her films are known for their nuanced characterizations and attention to detail. Watching her films can give you a deeper understanding of the world and people around you.
Cinematic Beauty: Claire Denis is known for her visually striking films. She often works with talented cinematographers to create gorgeous, atmospheric images that draw the viewer into the story. Her films are also known for their use of sound, which adds another layer of sensory richness to the viewing experience.
Critically Acclaimed: Claire Denis’s films have been critically acclaimed both in France and internationally. Her work has won numerous awards, including the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival and the César Award for Best Director. Watching her films can give you a deeper appreciation for the art of cinema and the ways in which film can communicate complex ideas and emotions.
Best Claire Denis Films – Wrapping Up
Claire Denis is a highly regarded French filmmaker known for her complex, visually striking, and often challenging films. Here are some of her best films:
“Beau Travail” (1999): This film, loosely based on Herman Melville’s “Billy Budd,” explores the lives of French Foreign Legion soldiers stationed in Djibouti. The film is notable for its striking visuals, poetic narrative, and nuanced exploration of masculinity and desire.
“35 Shots of Rum” (2008): This film follows the lives of a widowed train conductor and his daughter living in a Parisian suburb. The film is praised for its warmth, tenderness, and nuanced exploration of familial relationships.
“White Material” (2009): This film follows a coffee plantation owner in an unnamed African country on the brink of civil war. The film is praised for its haunting visuals, powerful performances, and nuanced exploration of colonialism and its impact on individuals and communities.
“Let the Sunshine In” (2017): This film follows a middle-aged artist played by Juliette Binoche as she navigates a series of romantic relationships. The film is praised for its nuanced and realistic portrayal of love and desire, as well as its stunning cinematography and Binoche’s powerful performance.
“High Life” (2018): This science-fiction film follows a group of criminals sent on a mission to explore a black hole. The film is praised for its complex narrative, stunning visuals, and exploration of themes such as mortality, reproduction, and the nature of humanity.
Overall, Claire Denis’ films are known for their complex and nuanced explorations of themes such as identity, desire, and colonialism, as well as their striking visual style and powerful performances.
