Robert Breson is one of the most respected directors in my “small book of things I respect.” (I should write that!) The biggest problem in writing a review of a Breson film is that you are competing with every other person who has written a review.  Most of these people have advanced degrees and speak French.  I’m obviously at a disadvantage at this point.  while I was watching Au Hasard Balthazar for the third time I made a realization.  Now I don’t mean a tiny realization like hey “preserves are tasty on toast!”  I mean like “that’s no moon” realization!

Breson is a Postmodern director/artist.  I know someone has probably said it already! But here is what I think…

As a true postmodern artist should leave all interpretation to the witness of the art and to the art itself I think that the point of this film and possibly other Breson films is not to examine the film itself but rather to examine yourself using the film as a catalyst for the examination process.

The great thing is that this makes Balthazar an extremely interactive film.  I propose that our job is not just t trust the director with our senses as we normally are required but rather to do that while trying to examining our specific and general reactions to the beats of the film.

Breson’s pacing and his use of non-actors and minimal dialogue allows us the leisure visually and auditoraly.  This is essential for the viewer so that they can take the added effort to consider their own thought and reaction to each beat.

The unique part of this is that it doesn’t not imply any moral standards or a worldview construct.  The film is a myth or fable of sorts that will help reveal your own self rather than reveal the directors self.  this allows people to all have their own opinions and reactions that are valid and also retains Breson’s credibility.

Let me know what you think because This just popped into my head a few hours ago and I’m dying to talk about it!