Messidor 1979
In Alain Tanner's *Messidor* (1979), two women from contrasting worlds escape the monotony of their urban lives, seeking solace in the vast, untamed landscapes of the Swiss countryside.
Director: Alain Tanner
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Messidor (1979) about?
*Messidor* follows two young women who leave behind their unsatisfying lives in search of renewal in the countryside. Their journey becomes a meditation on change, revealing how difficult it is to outrun the past—or even to recognize the future they truly want.
Who directed Messidor?
*Messidor* was directed by Alain Tanner, a Swiss filmmaker known for his thoughtful, character-driven dramas that explore social and personal dilemmas.
Who stars in Messidor?
The film stars Clémentine Amouroux as Jeanne and Catherine Rétoré as Marie, with supporting roles from Franziskus Abgottspon, Hansjorg Bedschard, and Jörg Reichlin.
Is Messidor (1979) worth watching?
As an adventurous drama rooted in existential themes, *Messidor* offers a meditative yet gripping experience for fans of character studies and thoughtful cinema. While not widely rated, its quiet intensity makes it a standout in Tanner's filmography.
How long is Messidor?
*Messidor* runs for 123 minutes, offering a substantial runtime that allows its story and themes to unfold naturally.
About Messidor (1979) — A Swiss Drama of Escape and Self-Discovery
In Alain Tanner's *Messidor* (1979), two women from contrasting worlds escape the monotony of their urban lives, seeking solace in the vast, untamed landscapes of the Swiss countryside. Clémentine Amouroux and Catherine Rétoré deliver raw, authentic performances as Jeanne and Marie, each fleeing from stifling relationships and unfulfilling existences. Their journey becomes less about finding a new beginning and more about confronting the inescapable realities of change. Tanner's direction weaves a poignant drama that explores themes of self-discovery, disillusionment, and the impossibility of turning back.
Set against the stark beauty of nature, *Messidor* captures a fleeting moment of rebellion before the weight of reality sets in. The film's meditative pace and naturalistic cinematography evoke a sense of quiet desperation, where freedom and longing collide. As the women navigate their way through both external and internal landscapes, the story unfolds with a haunting realism that lingers long after the credits roll.