Opening the Door to French Film

Opening the Door to French Film
Hugh Fox
World Audience, Inc.
ISBN: 978-1-934209- 39-4
Non-Fiction, Reference, Film
Reviewed by Vianna Renaud

This detailed yet easy to read book documents the best of the world of contemporary French cinema from the last century. Written on a variety of directors from Jean Vigo to Robert Bresson to Claude Chabrol, this educational yet interesting description of French film, from A to Z, will successfully lead you deeper into the wonderful world of French film. Written by noted professor and playwright Hugh Fox, be prepared to be guided through the ins and outs of this exciting genre.
Clearly a work of passion, I thoroughly enjoyed the way and manner in how Mr. Fox described his observations and thoughts. I particularly appreciated how even if you were not familiar with the director or film, he explained things in such a way that you could not help but understand the points he was trying to make. Written as almost an inner dialogue, alternating between describing movie scenes and interjecting his personal take, the reading proves to be quite lively and entertaining.
Another favourite highlight in the book was the information given on such iconic actresses such as Catherine Deneuve, Brigette Bardot, Juliette Binoche and Jean Moreau. While sometimes one can place focus solely on the male lead of a film, I found it refreshing that Mr. Fox put such emphasis on the importance of their supporting French actresses.