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Three Colours Red [1994]


RRP: £19.99
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Editorial
Amazon.co.uk Review

The final section of the late Krzysztof Kieslowski's acclaimed Three Colours trilogy (preceded by Blue and White) is the least likely of the three to stand alone, and indeed benefits from a little familiarity with the first two parts. Nevertheless, it's a strong, unique piece that reflects upon the ubiquity of images in the modern world and the parallel subjugation of meaningful communication. Irène Jacob plays a fashion model whose lovely face is hugely enlarged on a red banner no one in Geneva, Switzerland, can possibly miss seeing. Striking up a relationship with an embittered former judge (Jean-Louis Trintignant), who secretly scans his neighbours' conversations through electronic surveillance, Jacob's character becomes an aural witness to the secret lives of those we think we know. Kieslowski cleverly wraps up the trilogy with a device that brings together the principals of all three films. --Tom Keogh


Not a great transfer
Review date: 2008-09-11 Rating: 10 out of 10

I have this (the Artificial Eye release). It's a bit thin and fuzzy and a little background research suggests that the R1 NTSC copy is a lot better, with stronger colour, contrast and detail (though Blue and White seem to be ok on both sides of the Pond). I suspect there'll be a remastered "trilogy" set from France (probably Mk2) sooner or later.

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Reviews


best of the triology
Review date: 2008-07-02 Rating: 10 out of 10

Unlike one or two other reviewers, I thought this was easily the best of the three films, White in particular being slightly disappointing for me.

A thoughtful and beautiful film, I adored the relationship between the two main characters, brought together by loneliness, unhappiness and a mutual canine acquaintance. The camera work and use of colour is magnificent and although it appears languid, almost ponderous, every frame matters, every exchange significant, and every second a pleasure.

Incredible.

Exquisite.
Review date: 2007-09-23 Rating: 10 out of 10

Plot:

A young model living in Geneva, a judge become connected through controversial means.

My Review:

Kieslowski's trilogy ends with the colour Red as well as summing up the previous two films. TC: Red deals with various divides in society, and manages to dissolve 'segregation' blurring the lines of the 'fated-universe'.

Focus is given to Valentine (Irene Jacob) an introverted model who seems naive but not at all in the stupid sense, the public eye always domineering and judging eyes that watch her strut the catwalk. In accidentally running over a strangers dog, throws her into a deeper understanding of what it means to judge. She meets the pivotal figure in all this, a retired judge (Jean-Louis Trintignant). Having seen the recent 'The Lives of Others' it mirrors itself to the socio-political conflict during 1980's Berlin, Germany where the Stasi had keen ears on every suspecting house.

The most intellectual corollary that Kieslowski's three pieces ornate or always will ornate, is the adeptly writing style that envelops them all. Kieslowski doesn't incessantly draw out emotional dialogue and raw edge to cataclysm by overbearing it with needless flamboyant words to stay a finale; like many Hollywood pieces today. He is simple, if you were to ask someone "Do you love me?", and you mean 'yes', in requisite your answer should be a "Yes." As the retired judge spends all his time engaging in espionage on his 'temptation-filled neighbours', the old man and the young woman begin to iron out the creases with the force of a startling revelation.

Verdict:

Kieslowski's knockout piece. 9/10.

Stunning Finale to 'Three Colours' Trilogy
Review date: 2007-02-22 Rating: 10 out of 10

Three Colours Red is the final part of a trilogy of films directed by Krzysztof Kieslowski - though the connection between the three is quite loose. This film portrays fraternity - the power of friendship and concerns a young model, Valentine (Irene Jacob) who, after accidentally knocking down a dog, traces its' ownership to a retired judge (Jean-Louis Trintignant). She discovers that he spends his days eavesdropping on his neighbours telephone conversations and, though appalled, she tries to appeal to his better nature and comes to learn how he has become so embittered against other people. Their developing platonic friendship enriches them both and enables them to move on in their lives.

The plot though is only part of the enjoyment of this film. Kieslowski crafts each scene carefully. Red (the colour of love?) dominates the film. The performances of the main two actors are very credible and you are drawn in to their friendship. The music is again by Zbigniew Preisner and, though used quite sparingly, is an absolute joy to hear - particularly in the fashion show catwalk scene and over the closing credits. Acclaim for Three Colours Red was such that it became nominated for best film at the Oscars - not Best Foreign-Language Film - Best Film!! An incredible achievement for a French film in a Hollywood-dominated industry.

Obviously such a film will not be to everyone's taste. If you are into films like Die Hard and Blade, then this is probably not for you! But if you like drama and insight into human character then I can highly recommend Three Colours Red to you - one of my top 10 films.

Kieslowski's last film
Review date: 2006-03-24 Rating: 8 out of 10

I found this a thoughtful yet enigmatic film. It is the third in a trilogy and now I must see the other two...'The colour Blue' and 'The colour White'. They each have different casts yet they are all linked through a tragic ferry sinking in this last film.
Very illuminating are the views of Irene Jacob, who plays Valentine, the heroine. I had to watch it twice to really begin to see the subtleties in the plot. I urge you to see this film but it is not at all straightforward. You have to absorb the details to get a coherent understanding.
I would say this is a challenge to the audience from both the director and the actors. You watch it and see if it succeeds for you as well.

Product Details/Specifications


Actor(s):
Irène Jacob
Jean-Louis Trintignant
Samuel Le Bihan
Frédérique Feder
Jean-Pierre Lorit

Creators:
Irène Jacob (Primary Contributor)
Jean-Louis Trintignant (Primary Contributor)
Piotr Sobocinski (Cinematographer)
Krzysztof Kieslowski (Writer)
Jacques Witta (Editor)
Marin Karmitz (Producer)
Yvon Crenn (Producer)
Krzysztof Piesiewicz (Writer)

Director(s):

Recording label: Artificial Eye
Manufacturer: Artificial Eye
EAN: 5021866105307
Binding: DVD
Number of items: 1
Format: PAL, Widescreen,
Release date: 2001-10-29
Number of discs: 1
Audience rating: Suitable for 15 years and over
Region code: 2
Running time: 95 minutes
Theatrical release date: 1994-12
Language: English (Subtitled)
Language: French (Original Language)

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