Watch Lions Love

Lions Love is a satirical film from 1969 that explores the counterculture and politics of the late 1960s through the eyes of three eccentric characters living in Los Angeles: Viva, James Rado, and Gerome Ragni. The film's opening sequence introduces the trio as they wander through the city, observing and commenting on society's norms and values. In one scene, Viva stumbles upon a group of protesters chanting "peace, love, and freedom," and ironically remarks, "I hate people who do nothing but talk about peace and love."

As the film unfolds, the three characters navigate their relationships with each other, as well as their interactions with Hollywood producers and local politicians. Viva is an actress and artist who is consumed with the idea of fame, and throughout the movie, she auditions for various movie roles and attempts to make a name for herself in Hollywood.

Meanwhile, James Rado and Gerome Ragni are Broadway performers who are in LA to make a documentary about Viva. The two men are a couple, and their relationship is portrayed throughout the film with tenderness and humor.

The interactions between the three leads are often playful, but they also highlight the tensions that existed within the counterculture movement at the time. Viva is portrayed as a narcissist who craves attention and is often dismissive of other people, while Rado and Ragni are shown as more idealistic, with a genuine desire to create art that changes the world.

The film's social commentary extends beyond the relationships between the main characters, however. Throughout the movie, there are scenes depicting protests, police brutality, military recruitment efforts, and other aspects of the political landscape of the late 1960s.

The movie's title is a play on words, as "Lions Love" can be interpreted in different ways. On one hand, it can be seen as a symbol of the ferocity and independence that the film's characters embody. On the other hand, it can be interpreted as a reference to the lions from the Biblical story of Daniel, who were tamed and trained by the king.

The film's director, Agnès Varda, was a prominent figure in the French New Wave movement and brought a unique perspective to the movie, blending elements of documentary and fiction filmmaking. She also incorporated real-life figures into the narrative, such as Shirley Clarke and Andy Warhol, who make brief appearances in the film.

Overall, Lions Love is a playful and thought-provoking movie that provides a window into the counterculture of the late 1960s. Its exploration of fame, politics, and human relationships feels just as relevant today as it did over fifty years ago.