Les mauvaises rencontres

Young Anouk Aimée leads this film in a singular performance: it's not quite something you've seen before. While undergoing interrogation by police who are investigating the death of an abortion doctor, Catherine (Aimée) remembers, through flashbacks, her involvement with three men--a young frustrated journalist, a wealthy publisher and a fashion photographer. None of these were good choices for Catherine, but she survives quite well, even becomes semi-famous for a while, and gains financial security. As interesting as the stories are--and well-acted by all--it's the way director Alexandre Astruc has chose to present them that makes the film memorable. The flashbacks are artfully shot in stunning black & white, and all set in eye-catching locations. One in particular should be mentioned: a long scene between Catherine and Blaise (the publisher, played by Jean-Claude Pascal), set in a dim room with a large fireplace whose flickering flames create a strong mood of unease. Astruc's direction is without fault throughout. This is a very rare film--apparently not available on home video, essential viewing for fans of French cinema.