The Lovely Month of May 1963
"So, how are you feeling?"
In *The Lovely Month of May (1963)*, visionary filmmaker Chris Marker transforms the streets of Paris into a canvas for candid conversations about happiness.
Director: Chris Marker
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Lovely Month of May (1963) about?
*The Lovely Month of May* dives into the everyday lives of Parisians in the early 1960s, capturing their perspectives on happiness amid societal change. The film weaves together raw interviews that reveal how people define prosperity, freedom, and personal fulfillment when faced with economic and social challenges. It's less about answers and more about the questions that linger long after the credits roll.
Who directed The Lovely Month of May?
The film was directed by Chris Marker, the influential French filmmaker known for blending documentary with experimental storytelling in works like *La Jetée* and *Sans Soleil*.
Who stars in The Lovely Month of May?
The documentary features cameo appearances from cinematic legends Yves Montand, Jean-Luc Godard, Anna Karina, and Alain Resnais, alongside sociologist Edgar Morin.
Is The Lovely Month of May (1963) worth watching?
*The Lovely Month of May* is a compelling watch for fans of poetic documentaries and mid-century French cinema. While unrated, its thematic depth and Marker's distinctive voice make it a rewarding experience for those interested in the intersection of art, society, and human nature. Just don't expect a conventional narrative—this is a film to savor, not just consume.
How long is The Lovely Month of May?
The film runs for 165 minutes, offering a substantial yet immersive dive into its themes.
🎥 Trailer
About The Lovely Month of May (1963) — A cinematic snapshot of happiness in post-war Paris
In *The Lovely Month of May (1963)*, visionary filmmaker Chris Marker transforms the streets of Paris into a canvas for candid conversations about happiness. Through a series of unscripted interviews with everyday Parisians, Marker crafts a poignant documentary that transcends borders, exploring universal human aspirations like self-improvement, tolerance, and economic freedom. The film's black-and-white aesthetic and intimate tone draw viewers into a reflective space where economic realities and personal dreams intersect, painting a portrait of a society grappling with modernity while holding onto timeless ideals.
Narrated with Marker's signature observational style, this 165-minute exploration features cameos from cinematic icons like Jean-Luc Godard and Anna Karina, adding a layer of cultural depth to its introspective journey. The tone balances quiet optimism with subtle skepticism, mirroring the complexity of its central question: when asked about happiness, how do ordinary voices articulate a feeling that often defies definition?