Watch La Commune

La Commune is a French historical drama film directed by Peter Watkins. It is a three-hour long depiction of the events that led to the Paris Commune in 1871, and the subsequent revolt against the ruling French government. The film is shot in a unique pseudo-documentary style, with handheld cameras and interviews with characters, as if the events were being covered by a news channel.

The story revolves around a group of working-class Parisians who band together to form a revolutionary government in the wake of France's defeat in the Franco-Prussian War. The group is made up of a diverse range of characters, including artists, actors, and factory workers, all looking to overthrow the oppressive French government and establish a socialist society.

As the group takes over control of the city, they quickly realize the difficulties of governing a large urban population. They implement various policies to help the poor, including free education, improved working conditions, and social welfare programs. However, as the days go by, tension builds between the new government and the city's upper class, who view the commune as a threat to their way of life.

The film does an excellent job of showcasing the complexity of the Paris Commune and its aftermath. The viewer is transported to the streets of Paris, where they witness the birth of a new social order and the subsequent challenges that arise. The film depicts the political battles within the group, as well as the struggles to maintain order in a city on the brink of revolution. The dialogue is mostly improvised, giving the characters a realistic feel and making the viewer feel closer to the action.

One of the key themes of the movie is the role of women in the Paris Commune. The camera often focuses on women working side by side with men in various tasks, including construction, nursing, and defense. The female characters are shown as strong-willed, intelligent, and capable leaders, challenging the traditional gender roles of the time. This portrayal is a refreshing departure from the male-dominated narratives of most historical films.

The cinematography in La Commune is raw and intimate. The film was shot in a real location and features non-professional actors. The hand-held camera work adds to the authenticity of the movie, and the fact that some of the actors were clearly not used to performing on camera adds to the film's realism. The film also makes effective use of archival footage and photographs, adding to the already immersive experience.

The musical score of La Commune is a mix of original compositions and traditional French songs. The soundtrack is well-suited to the action on screen, and adds to the overall historical feel. The music is a mix of rousing anthems and haunting ballads, capturing the range of emotions felt by the characters throughout the film.

In conclusion, La Commune is a remarkable story of revolution and social change, told through an innovative blending of documentary and drama. Despite its long runtime and slow pace, the movie is engaging from start to finish, thanks to its masterful direction and immersive cinematography. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in French history, feminism, or the revolutionary spirit.