Though I'm french, I am not a fan of french movies which I usually find boring or too intellectual ( in a pejorative way ).
This being said, I've always liked this movie, greatly because of the incredible performance of Michel Simon, undoubtedly one of the greatest french actors ever. His portrayal of Mephistopheles is delightful in every way. He leaves but little place to the other actors ( mostly Gerard Philippe the avatar of the romantic actor, playing young Faust having sold his soul to the devil ).
In an era where special effects where about non existent, Rene Clair managed to make a really witty comedy about the meaning of life.
Astonishing to see how certain movies, no matter how old they are, remain entertaining. This is definitely one of them.
A must see ! Should you like it, try Belles de Jour from Rene Clair too, another witty romantic old times french comedy. You'll be pleased.
This being said, I've always liked this movie, greatly because of the incredible performance of Michel Simon, undoubtedly one of the greatest french actors ever. His portrayal of Mephistopheles is delightful in every way. He leaves but little place to the other actors ( mostly Gerard Philippe the avatar of the romantic actor, playing young Faust having sold his soul to the devil ).
In an era where special effects where about non existent, Rene Clair managed to make a really witty comedy about the meaning of life.
Astonishing to see how certain movies, no matter how old they are, remain entertaining. This is definitely one of them.
A must see ! Should you like it, try Belles de Jour from Rene Clair too, another witty romantic old times french comedy. You'll be pleased.