Betty Blue (1986)

Shat the Movies: 80's & 90's Best Film Review

28-09-2024 • 1 hr 4 mins

In the 1986 French romantic drama Betty Blue (37°2 le matin), directed by Jean-Jacques Beineix, Jean-Hugues Anglade stars as Zorg, a laid-back handyman and aspiring writer living a simple life in a beachside bungalow. His world is turned upside down when he meets Betty, played by Béatrice Dalle, a passionate and impulsive young woman. Their intense relationship quickly evolves into a whirlwind romance filled with passion, creativity, and chaos.

Betty, who is wild and free-spirited, encourages Zorg to pursue his dream of becoming a writer, believing in his talent more than he does. However, as their love deepens, it becomes apparent that Betty’s erratic behavior is a sign of a much deeper emotional and psychological instability. As she spirals into unpredictable bouts of anger and despair, Zorg’s life begins to unravel, and their relationship is put to the ultimate test.

Determined to support Betty, Zorg follows her through a series of wild adventures, including a move to the city and a desperate attempt to get his novel published. Despite their shared moments of bliss and creativity, Betty's mental health deteriorates, pushing Zorg to the limits of love and devotion as he struggles to cope with her increasingly volatile behavior.

Betty Blue is a visually stunning and emotionally charged exploration of love, madness, and the fine line between passion and obsession. The film, set against the backdrop of 1980s France, captures the highs and lows of an all-consuming relationship. Join our podcast review as we revisit this cult classic, discussing its haunting performances, striking visuals, and whether its raw portrayal of love and mental illness still resonates with audiences today.

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