Breathless

Breathless is a 1960 American crime drama film directed by Jean-Luc Godard, marking the second feature film in his iconic 'New Wave' style. The movie follows the story of Jesse (played by Jean-Paul Belmondo), a young and charming thief who sets out on an adventure in Los Angeles. Jesse, a charismatic small-time crook, falls for the charms of a beautiful French exchange student named Patricia (played by Jean Seberg). He decides to leave his mundane life in Chicago for a thrilling escapade to Los Angeles, hoping to meet Patricia and live a more exciting life. Upon arriving in the city, Jesse takes a liking to Patricia's beauty and decides to stay awhile to win her heart. However, their budding romance is soon disrupted when Jesse's reckless nature gets him into trouble. While on the run from the police, Jesse steals a Cadillac from a parking lot, which he takes for a joyride through the streets of Los Angeles. During the high-speed chase, he accidentally runs over a highway patrolman, leaving the officer's lifeless body on the road. The patrolman's death inadvertently turns Jesse into a fugitive, with the police hot on his heels. As Jesse navigates the city, he evades capture while trying to convince Patricia of his innocence. With the police closing in, Jesse resorts to various means of survival, including stealing money from a store, and later attempting to sell a stolen television set. Throughout his ordeal, Jesse consistently denies any involvement in the death of the patrolman, claiming it was an accident. The portrayal of the Los Angeles cityscape and its inhabitants serves as a significant aspect of the film, reflecting Godard's distinct style. The use of vibrant colors, dynamic camera angles, and a prominent focus on the city's nightlife capture the essence of the city, painting it as a place of freedom and liberation. One notable theme explored in the movie is the tension between freedom and responsibility. Jesse's actions serve as a manifestation of his desire for freedom, which leads him to disregard the consequences of his actions. However, the gravity of his crimes becomes increasingly apparent as the story progresses. The film leaves the audience pondering whether Jesse's carefree nature and his refusal to accept responsibility for his actions can be attributed to his youth and idealism. The performances in the movie are also noteworthy, particularly from Jean-Paul Belmondo and Jean Seberg. Belmondo brings a charismatic energy to the role of Jesse, exuding a reckless charm that resonates throughout the film. Seberg, on the other hand, brings a quiet sensitivity to Patricia, creating a compelling contrast between the couple's perspectives on life. The cinematography in Breathless also deserves recognition for its groundbreaking style. Godard employs a bold visual aesthetic, often using unconventional camera angles and close-ups to capture the emotional intensity of the scenes. The film's use of close-ups creates a sense of intimacy between the characters and the viewer, bringing the audience closer to the chaos unfolding on screen. Breathless is a landmark film in the history of world cinema, marking a significant shift in filmmaking styles. Its 'New Wave' influence paved the way for other groundbreaking films, and its themes of freedom, responsibility, and the human condition have been interpreted in various ways by critics and audiences alike. Despite its age, the movie continues to captivate viewers, providing a thought-provoking commentary on the complexities of human nature.