Jacques Demy's first and in some ways best feature (1961), shot in black-and-white 'Scope by Raoul Coutard, is one of the most neglected of all the major works of the French New Wave. Abandoned by her sailor lover, Lola (Anouk Aimée), a cabaret dancer, brings up their son while waiting for his return, and ultimately has to choose among three men. Chock-full of film references (to The Blue Angel, Max Ophüls, Breathless, and Hollywood musicals, among other things) and lyrically shot in Nantes, where the story is set, Demy composes a romantic "camera stylo" love letter, and Michel Legrand's lovely score provides ideal nostalgic accompaniment. In his third feature and biggest hit, The Umbrellas of Cherbourg, Demy settled on life's disappointments; here, where at least one major character gets exactly what she wants, the effect is no less sad, and equally poignant.
—Jonathan Rosenbaum
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French publicity poster for Lola |
