“Last Tango in Paris,” directed by Bernardo Bertolucci and starring Marlon Brando and Maria Schneider, is a film that continues to ignite discussions and debates. Released in 1972, this French-Italian drama became one of the most controversial movies of its time due to its explicit content and raw portrayal of sexual and emotional relationships.
Plot
The film follows Paul (Marlon Brando), a middle-aged American expatriate grieving his wife’s recent suicide, and Jeanne (Maria Schneider), a young French woman about to be married. The two meet by chance while looking at an apartment for rent in Paris, and they embark on an anonymous sexual relationship within the vacant space.
Without revealing their names, they delve into a physical relationship that’s free from societal norms and personal histories. Eventually, their lives outside the apartment begin to permeate the relationship, leading to a dramatic and tragic conclusion.
Themes and Symbolism
“Last Tango in Paris” is rich in metaphor, symbolism, and thematic exploration. The apartment itself becomes a microcosm of desire and existential despair, a place where the characters can escape their everyday realities. The story explores themes of identity, love, loss, and the human condition.
Controversies
Despite its acclaim, “Last Tango in Paris” became notorious for its explicit sex scenes, earning an X rating in many countries. But beyond the controversy over its sexual content, the film drew further scrutiny for the way in which a particular scene was handled.
Maria Schneider later stated that she felt exploited and humiliated by the filming of a particular sex scene involving the use of butter. Bertolucci later acknowledged that he and Brando had conspired to surprise Schneider with some details of the scene to get a more genuine reaction, a decision he regretted. This aspect has led to ongoing debates about consent and ethics in filmmaking.
Critical Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, “Last Tango in Paris” was both lauded and vilified. Critics like Pauline Kael praised it for its artistic merits and bold storytelling, while others found it obscene and repellent.
The performances of both Brando and Schneider were highly praised. Brando’s portrayal, in particular, is considered one of his finest, a raw and nuanced performance that showcases his legendary method acting techniques.
In terms of its legacy, the film has been credited with pushing boundaries in cinema, opening up conversations around sexuality, and challenging traditional storytelling methods. Its controversial history continues to be a point of study and discussion in film circles.
***
“Last Tango in Paris” is a complex, challenging piece of cinema that continues to elicit strong reactions. Its portrayal of an intense, nihilistic relationship has earned it a place as a significant cultural artifact of the 1970s. The film’s technical excellence, compelling performances, and profound themes make it a standout, while its controversies continue to prompt discussions about consent, ethics, and the responsibilities of filmmakers.
Whether viewed as a masterpiece or a cautionary tale, “Last Tango in Paris” remains a critical touchstone in film history, reflecting both the era’s artistic experimentation and its social tumult. It’s a film that demands consideration, not just for its content but for the larger questions it raises about cinema and society.
Mike m. luster 