Every Man for Himself

Every Man for Himself, a movie released in 1980, is a masterpiece directed by the legendary Jean-Luc Godard. Exploring the concept of relationships, work, and unconscious dreams, this film is a deep dive into the complexities of human existence represented by an intricate nexus of three lives. Starring in the film are renowned actors Isabelle Huppert, Jacques Dutronc, and Nathalie Baye, who brilliantly bring these characters to life with their immaculate performances.

The film, not quite conforming to traditional plot structures, explores three interlocking stories rather than following a linear narrative. The narrative primarily revolves around Paul Godard, played by Jacques Dutronc, a disillusioned television director living in Geneva, who is undergoing through a personal and professional crisis. Dutronc effectively highlights Godard’s desolation through his poignant portrayal, enabling us to feel an immersive empathy for the character.

Isabelle Huppert plays Isabelle Rivière, a provincial girl who works as a street sex worker while trying to navigate her way in the city of Geneva. Her story paints a vivid picture of the struggle and hardships of living a dual existence in a city that valiantly wears a mask of glitz and glamour but is intrinsically indifferent and ruthless to its inhabitants. Despite these harsh conditions, Isabelle shows resilience and hope that tug at your heartstrings.

Completing the triad is Nathalie Baye who played the role of Denise Rimbaud. Denise is Paul Godard’s former girlfriend, a woman of independent thoughts who is in pursuit of making her own film. This quest of hers not only brings her into Paul's disoriented life but also runs parallel to the metanarrative of the film itself. The character arc of Denise exhibits the challenges associated with self-expression, especially in an artistic endeavor that requires the approval and cooperation of others.

Every Man for Himself is a film that converses with us through intricate symbolism and metaphors rather than spoon-feeding information. It reflects Godard’s signature narrative style, where he replays certain scenes in slow motion, providing the audience with ample room for introspection and interpretation. These scenes are nothing short of visual poetry, poignantly underscoring the characters' internal struggles and their quest for finding agency and meaning in their seemingly mundane yet complex lives.

Moreover, the distinctive cinematography of the film stands out throughout, as Godard employs freeze frames and slow-motion techniques to emphasize and deconstruct each moment. Each shot in the film vividly encapsulates the everyday banality and the hidden turmoil in the lives of the characters. The use of a mixture of natural and artificial light adds a distinct flavor to the mise-en-scene, creating an ambience that resonates deeply with the audience.

While the film is primarily in French, it is sub-titled in English. This allows the audience to fully appreciate the intricacies of its dialogue and narrative structure, engendering a profound understanding of the characters' personal aspirations and turmoil. The haunting musical score further complements the cinematic storytelling, underlining the turbulence underlying their lives.

Every Man for Himself is a work of art that requires the audience to engage actively with its narrative and empathize with its characters. Its strength lies in the way it lays bare the daily struggles, dreams, and desires of its characters, and their resolute bid to find their place in the world.

In the end, Every Man for Himself is more than just a film; it is an intellectual and emotional exploration of human existence. By portraying the lives of three ordinary people, the film powerfully and poetically explores the universal themes of modern life, desires, and the essential human struggle to seek meaning and identity among the chaos. It is a testament to the genius of Godard, whose potent cinematic style and narrative elegance infuse humanity into every frame of the film.

Overall, Every Man for Himself invites you to embark on a thought-provoking journey that is at once profound, poignant, and soul-stirring. It masterfully unravels the labyrinth of human emotions and aspirations wrapped up in the ordinariness of daily life. Whether you’re a fan of Godard, an admirer of French cinema, or someone who appreciates philosophical depth in films, Every Man for Himself is a must-watch.