The Films of Alain Robbe-Grilet : Book Review

"The Films of Alain Robbe-Grillet" by Roy Armes offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration into the life and work of the renowned filmmaker. Armes takes readers on a journey through each of Robbe-Grillet's movies, providing detailed analysis and commentary that sheds light on their themes, techniques, and narrative structures.

The book begins by immersing readers in Robbe-Grillet's background, examining his influences and artistic vision. This thorough introduction helps readers understand the context in which the director's work was created. Armes then proceeds to analyze each of Robbe-Grillet's films chronologically, offering valuable insights into their significance within the larger landscape of French cinema and the European avant-garde movement.

Armes' ability to place Robbe-Grillet's work within its broader historical and artistic context is one of the book's standout strengths. By doing so, he helps readers appreciate the director's unique contributions to film and understand the innovative nature of his work.

The author's writing style is accessible and engaging, making the book suitable for both film scholars and general readers with an interest in cinema. Armes incorporates interviews with Robbe-Grillet and other key figures in his work, providing readers with a more intimate understanding of the director's creative process.

Overall, "The Films of Alain Robbe-Grillet" is an indispensable resource for anyone interested in exploring the works of this pioneering filmmaker. Armes' meticulous analysis and insightful commentary make this book a must-read for film enthusiasts and scholars alike. Whether you're seeking a deeper understanding of Robbe-Grillet's films or the broader context of French cinema, this book is sure to satisfy your curiosity.

What are readers saying?

"The Films of Alain Robbe-Grillet" by Roy Armes has garnered mixed reviews from readers. While some praise Armes for his comprehensive analysis of the renowned filmmaker's work, others criticize the book for being overly academic and difficult to access.

Numerous reviewers appreciate Armes' in-depth exploration of Alain Robbe-Grillet's films and commend his extensive research and detailed analysis. They find value in the book as it sheds light on the various themes and techniques employed by the filmmaker. Many readers, particularly film scholars and enthusiasts, consider it a valuable resource due to its exploration of Robbe-Grillet's unique style and the complexities therein.

However, some readers critique the academic nature of the book. They argue that the writing style is dense and filled with jargon, making it inaccessible for casual readers. There is frustration expressed by some reviewers, who feel a strong background in film theory and criticism is necessary to fully appreciate the book.

Additionally, a few readers feel that the book lacks clear structure and organization, leading to a disjointed flow of content. This makes it challenging for readers to follow the author's arguments and ideas. Suggestions are made to improve the book's readability by implementing a more cohesive structure.

Despite these criticisms, many readers consider "The Films of Alain Robbe-Grillet" an essential addition to any film enthusiast's library. They appreciate the comprehensive nature of the book, covering various aspects of Robbe-Grillet's films, including narrative structure, visual style, and thematic elements. Overall, Armes' work is praised for its thorough examination of the filmmaker's body of work.

AlainRobbeGrilet FilmLovers FrenchCinema