Film Socialisme

Legendary film director Jean-Luc Godard says that Film Socialisme—a typically dense, discursive, and idiosyncratic work—will be his final movie. In classic Godard mode, the film is less conventional narrative than cinematic essay, serving up a contemplation of social politics in today's capitalist society through character debates and satirical episodes. The nominal plot follows a diverse group of characters on the cruise ship Costa Concordia (made infamous in the disastrous shipwreck earlier this year) as they wander the decks and endless passageways like a society lost in anonymous affluence. Godard then turns to a family—running a struggling French highway gas station—who debate politics and history while a TV crew tries to film. Highly praised for its challenging style and criticized for its strident dialogue, elusive meanings, and Jewish stereotypes, Film Socialisme features appearances by rock legend Patti Smith and guitarist Lenny Kaye. While this may be the last word from Godard (who ends the film with the cheeky "No Comment"), it's not the best introduction to the director for those unfamiliar with his work, although it is essential for any serious foreign cinema collection. Recommended. (S. Axmaker)