Watch The Clockmaker

The Clockmaker, a 1974 French drama film directed by Bertrand Tavernier, revolves around the life of an aging clockmaker, Antoine, played by Philippe Noiret, who lives a quiet and solitary life in a small French village. Antoine is an old-fashioned craftsman, specialized in repairing clocks and watches, but he has a secret passion for music, which he pursues by playing the flute in the local music society.

The film opens with Antoine's routine life, where he repairs clocks for his clients and spends time playing his flute in the woods, surrounded by nature's tranquillity. Amidst this, Antoine receives a request for repairing a clock from a wealthy bourgeois lady named Madame Desfontaines, played by Monique Chaumette. Antoine visits her mansion to collect the clock and becomes fascinated by her luxurious lifestyle, stunning art collections, and charming character. Antoine starts visiting Madame Desfontaines frequently and develops a bond with her. She becomes his muse, giving him the inspiration to create music again. Antoine, who hasn't made music in over twenty years, starts composing tunes due to her encouragement.

The story takes a dramatic turn when Antoine meets a young man, Freddy, played by Jacques Denis, who is seeking refuge from the police. Freddy has been involved in a crime and runs to Antoine for help, who hesitantly agrees to provide him with shelter. Little does Antoine know that by offering him a place to stay, Freddy's presence would gradually turn Antoine's life upside down. As both of them start to develop a unique relationship, Freddy soon discovers Antoine's passion for music and decides to help him compose and publish his music.

However, the film takes an unexpected turn when Freddy's pursuer, Inspector Guilboud, played by Jean Rochefort, reaches Antoine's village, looking for him. Guilboud suspects that Antoine is hiding Freddy, so he starts monitoring his moves, which leads to unforeseen consequences.

Throughout the film, we observe an amalgamation of different themes like the importance of friendship, passion, and creativity. The Clockmaker is not only about Antoine's love for music, but it is an emotional journey that depicts the portrayal of time's fleeting and transient nature. The film makes us realise the value of time and how our daily routines can numb our senses, leading to a life devoid of passion and artistic vision.

The character of Antoine, played by Philippe Noiret, is the heart of the film. His subtle expressions and nuanced acting show the complexity of his character, who is cranky on the outside, but sensitive and creative on the inside. The character of Freddy, brilliantly portrayed by Jacques Denis, provides the perfect foil to Antoine's personality. Freddy's vitality, risk-taking behaviour, and courage are in sharp contrast to Antoine's passivity and introverted nature.

The performances of Jean Rochefort and Monique Chaumette are also notable. Rochefort's character is a lawman who is determined to catch the criminal, but he is also sensitive and ethical. Chaumette's role is vital in the sense that she becomes Antoine's inspiration, leading him to rediscover his passion for music.

The Clockmaker is shot beautifully, with the serene countryside and the village setting providing the perfect backdrop to the story. The music of the film, which is primarily composed by Philippe Sarde, is haunting, emotional and simple, evoking the story's mood and enhancing the visual appeal.

In conclusion, The Clockmaker is a classic French film that not only touches upon the themes of passion, creativity, and friendship but also reflects upon the transience of time, and how it can unlock a person's potential for artistic expression. The film's nuanced performances, cinematography, music, and storyline make it a must-watch for anyone who loves French cinema.