Awarded the Silver Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival

Alain Resnais, a towering figure in French cinema, gained international acclaim with the documentary 'Night and Fog' (1955), a powerful indictment of the Holocaust at Auschwitz, and the Venice Film Festival Golden Lion winner 'Last Year at Marienbad' (1961). The news of the master's passing last year, a director who remained passionate about filmmaking until the end, sent shockwaves around the world. This film, 'Life of Riley,' a lighthearted portrayal of romantic entanglements, is the 'gift' he left behind.

This film, an adaptation of British playwright Alan Ayckbourn's 'A Life of Ease,' masterfully blends Resnais's profound appreciation for literature, theater, music, and even comics. At last year's Berlin International Film Festival, it received the Alfred Bauer Prize (Silver Bear), awarded to innovative young directors, a fitting tribute to Resnais.


Resnais cherished collaborative work with his trusted circle, known as the 'Resnais troupe,' comprising both cast and crew. The film features a stellar cast of accomplished French actors, led by Sabine Azéma, who was both a public and private muse for the director.

Three Couples Unite for a Friend with Limited Time

Georges, a charismatic high school teacher and a mutual friend of three couples, is diagnosed with terminal cancer. Upon learning he has little time left, his friends panic. They rally together, determined to make the most of their beloved friend's remaining days.

However, women who had past relationships with Georges begin to clash over him, while the men find themselves in turmoil, harboring unspoken feelings. The relationships between the three couples take an unexpected turn,—.

This human drama exquisitely blends British humor with French wit. The film, a playful final work, resonates with a message of "Let's enjoy life," echoing the spirit of Resnais, who continued to create despite his illness, and Georges's own approach to life.

Life of Riley
Now playing nationwide at Iwanami Hall and other theaters starting February 14th (Saturday).
Director | Alain Resnais
Starring | Sabine Azéma, Hippolyte Girardot, Caroline Sihol, Michel Vuillermoz, André Dussollier
Distribution | Crest International
2014 / France / 108 min
http://crest-inter.co.jp/aishite/


© 2013 F COMME FILM – FRANCE 2 CINÉMA – SOLIVAGUS