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Le Bal (1982)

Director: Ettore Scola

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Movie review

From Time Out Film Guide

Scola's wordless musical-dance extravaganza traces the life of a ballroom from 1936 to the present. While couples meet, steal kisses, and separate, events in the world outside are echoed in their mimetic rituals and groupings; for the film is clearly intended as a historical and political allegory. Instead of offering any insights into France's shifting character, it relies largely on the audience's smug recognition of supposedly 'significant' cultural symbols. Fatuous stuff, really, especially when several references are anachronistic. A strong cast struggles valiantly against Felliniesque stereotypes to convey the gaucheries of human coupling. But in a movie aiming for something more ambitious, that's simply not enough.

Author: GA 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Time Out Film Guide

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User reviews of this film

  • Barrington-Barry Magee said...
    Posted on Oct 01 2007 20:08 A superb film that contains a selection of truly wonderful French characters, portrayed by exceedingly talented Cinema ‘ARTISTS’ who demonstrate there superb ability to communicate without the use of the spoken word but by the use of physical motions and expressions and great supporting music. Top credits to the Director, Ettore Scola, Producer, Giorgio Silvagni and the Le Troupe du Theatre du Campagnol.
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Cast & crew

Director: Ettore Scola

Producer: Giorgio Silvagni

Cast: Le Troupe du Théâtre du Campagnol full cast

Genre(s): Musicals

Duration: 112 mins


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