Watch Accident

In 1967, the British suspense film "Accident" hit theaters, directed by Joseph Losey and starring Dirk Bogarde, Stanley Baker, and Jacqueline Sassard. The film is known for its stylistic approach to presenting ennui and regret, as it follows a group of intellectuals living in Oxford. The film focuses on Stephen (Bogarde), an intelligent but disillusioned college professor who is stuck in a loveless marriage. Stephen is also having an affair with a young student named Anna (Sassard), who doesn't seem to be as committed to their relationship as Stephen is. Stephen's friend Charley (Baker) is also a professor, but he is more outgoing and charismatic than Stephen. However, Charley's confidence masks his own insecurities and doubts.

The film opens with a car accident that takes place late at night in the countryside. The driver of the car, who is never identified, appears to be seriously injured. From there, the film cuts to the lives of the main characters, who are all linked to the accident in one way or another. As the plot unfolds, we see how each character is struggling with personal issues and trying to find meaning in their lives.

Stephen is brooding and uncertain about his future, unsure if he wants to continue on as a professor or strike out in a new direction. He sees Anna as a way out of his current situation but is constantly reminded that she is not as committed to their relationship as he is. Charley, on the other hand, is more than willing to take risks and live life to the fullest, but he is haunted by his own past mistakes.

As the film progresses, we begin to see how the characters' lives intersect with one another. We see how Anna is attracted to Charley despite her relationship with Stephen, and how Stephen relies on Charley for emotional support. We also see how Charley is carrying on an affair with a married woman, who happens to be the wife of another one of the main characters.

Like many films from this era, "Accident" is a product of its time, dealing with themes of sexual liberation and existential angst. The characters are all well-educated and well-spoken, but they are also deeply flawed and troubled. The film's setting in Oxford lends itself to the intellectual discussions and musings that are a hallmark of British arthouse cinema.

One of the film's strengths is its use of flashbacks and dream sequences to reveal the characters' inner thoughts and desires. These sequences are often unsettling and dreamlike, providing a glimpse into the characters' subconscious. This style is also reflected in the film's use of music, which is often discordant and disorienting.

Overall, "Accident" is a thought-provoking and visually interesting film that explores the complexities of modern relationships and the search for meaning. While it may not be for everyone, those who appreciate slow-burning character studies will find much to enjoy here. The performances from Bogarde, Baker, and Sassard are all top-notch, and the film's cinematography and direction are excellent.

Accident is a 1967 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.