La Notte (1961)
Nothing cuts deeper than “I don’t love you anymore.”
Presentation:
When it comes to Italian master Antonioni, many will claim La Notte to be his masterpiece. However, you may only agree once you reach the last 30 minutes of the film. Most of the story feels like Fellini’s La Dolce Vita, highlighting the emptiness of the bourgeoisie party culture in Italy. But this is the second film in Antonioni’s alienation trilogy, focusing more on existential loneliness and love instead. Jeanne Moreau’s performance might be one of the most realistic depictions of depression I’ve seen in cinema since Melancholia. As usual, the cinematography and presentation is stylish but grounded in heavy themes.
Conclusion:
Although this film is critically acclaimed, I can’t imagine anyone under the age of 30 to fully appreciate it due to the mature themes. For anyone that has been in a long term relationship to the point of ossification, La Notte might be one of the more profound romance films, distinct from the explosive theatrics of Marriage Story. This is a messy film about deep love despite the rut, a painfully realistic look in the mirror for imperfect partners. Although L’Avventura is probably the more entertaining film, La Notte will leave a more lasting impact, devastating you with crushing emptiness.
Recommendations
Nothing cuts deeper than “I don’t love you anymore.”