Watch Les hautes solitudes

Les hautes solitudes, released in 1974, is a French experimental film directed by Philippe Garrel. The movie features three prominent actresses of the era - Jean Seberg, Nico, and Tina Aumont. The film begins with a long shot of a train making its way through the French countryside. This scene sets the tone for the rest of the movie, which is shot entirely in black and white and has a very meditative atmosphere. The film is divided into several chapters, each following one of the three actresses as they move around a vacant apartment, smoking, drinking coffee, and engaging in philosophical musings.

Jean Seberg's chapter depicts her wandering alone in the apartment, seeming lost in thought. She talks about various philosophical concepts, such as the nature of time and the concept of "nothingness." Seberg's section is moody and introspective, and her melancholic expressions add to the overall meditative feel of the film.

Nico's chapter follows the singer as she smokes cigarettes and drinks coffee. She is joined by a male companion, and together they engage in a quiet conversation about topics ranging from cosmology to relationships. Nico's section is slightly more upbeat than Seberg's, and her hypnotic voice adds a layer of enigmatic charm to the movie.

Tina Aumont's chapter is the shortest of the three, but it is arguably the most intense. Aumont speaks mainly about her internal fears, and the camera focuses close up on her face as she delivers her monologue. Her section is the most visually compelling, with the camera moving around the room in a series of sweeping shots that culminate in a dramatic closeup of her face.

The film as a whole is a beautifully cinematic experience. Garrel's directorial style is simple but effective - he uses long shots and minimal editing to create a sense of space and timelessness. The cinematography is stunning, with the black and white contrast giving the film a dreamlike quality. The actresses are captivating in their performances, all delivering sincere monologues and adding depth to the overall tone of the movie.

Les hautes solitudes is a movie that eschews traditional plot structures and instead focuses on the inner lives of its characters. The film is artful and philosophical, and those who appreciate experimental cinema will find a lot to enjoy in this piece. It's a viewing experience that requires patience and an open mind, but those who are willing to stick with it will be rewarded with a mesmerizing work of art.