TIFF 2024: Scénarios Movie Trailer
Jean-Luc Godard, a towering figure in cinema history, offers one last meditative glance at his craft and philosophy with Scénarios. Completed just a day before his assisted death in September 2022, this 18-minute film serves as both a reflection and a testament to his lifelong preoccupations with art, cinema, language, and mortality. Here’s a closer look at what makes this final project so compelling.
What’s Scénarios About?
Scénarios is a unique and personal exploration of Godard’s creative process. The film is divided into two parts:
- The First Part: This segment is a docu-textual collage, a mosaic of images, quotations, musical cues, and film clips that showcase Godard’s signature style. Edited and curated from a storyboard by Fabrice Aragno, this section offers an intimate glimpse into Godard’s artistic process and thematic concerns.
- The Second Part: Here, we see Godard himself, calm and contemplative, discussing his ideas for a second part of the project. This segment is essentially a fly-on-the-wall observation, capturing Godard as he walks us through his conceptual notebook. Despite his frail condition, his enthusiasm for his work remains palpable, providing a moving insight into his final days.
Why You Should Watch It
1. An Intimate Farewell: This film is Godard’s final gift to the world of cinema. It offers a deeply personal look at his thoughts and reflections as he approaches the end of his life. The rawness and honesty in Scénarios are a poignant reminder of Godard’s enduring passion for his craft.
2. Artistic Legacy: The film showcases Godard’s signature collage technique, blending different media to explore complex themes. This method, honed over decades, is on full display here, reflecting his innovative approach to filmmaking.
3. A Conversation with a Master: In the second part of the film, Godard’s discussion of his ideas is both fascinating and educational. Watching him explain his creative process provides valuable insights into the mind of one of cinema’s greatest pioneers.
4. Historical Significance: As his last completed work, Scénarios is a significant piece of cinematic history. It encapsulates Godard’s philosophical inquiries and artistic evolution, making it essential viewing for anyone interested in film history.
Showtimes
Catch Scénarios at the following screening:
- Sunday, September 8
TIFF Lightbox
6:00 PM EDT
Final Thoughts
Scénarios is more than just a film; it’s a testament to Jean-Luc Godard’s lifelong dedication to exploring and expanding the boundaries of cinema. Through its collage of images and reflective narrative, the film offers a moving and profound look at the end of a legendary career. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Godard’s work, this film is a compelling and intimate experience that shouldn’t be missed.
