Every so often a film comes along which qualitatively surpasses the overwhelming number of movies available. BRODEUSES is one which requires a super classification. It contains elements which I deem essential for films of merit: superior writing, exemplary direction, abundant understatement, good use of color, effective use of facial expressions and eye movement, and suspense in the form of an omnipresent question. The writing is to the point, and mindless chatter which one finds in so many film productions is non-existent in this one. What needs to be said, is said, no more or no less. Economy of dialogue is a virtue. The camera angles resulting from the direction draw the viewer into the scenes. I find myself wanting to keep Claire from falling of her scooter, or from sliding off the side of the mountain when harvesting cabbages. The understatement insures that there are no screaming parents, pouting children, or meddling yentas. Claire's plight becomes more obvious as the months past, yet no one judges or indictes. All seem to understand and to accept, and, except for and occasional facial expression or eye movement, no one reacts. However, it in the use of color that his film excels. Claire's red hair and her green coat are obviously complementary, and the embriodery is spectacular. The are dozens of other examples. And the unanswered question? There is more that one question left unresolved, and that is as it should be. This film is going on my "view often" list, if for no other reason than to reinforce my need for good art.
