Going Places (1974) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Introduction
Going Places (1974) is a French comedy directed by Bertrand Blier, known for its provocative humor and unconventional narrative. The film stars Gérard Depardieu and Patrick Dewaere as two charming yet morally questionable protagonists whose antics lead them on a series of outrageous adventures. The film’s blend of dark humor, satire, and audacious storytelling makes it a noteworthy entry in 1970s French cinema.
This review will delve into the film’s plot, characters, and its place in French cinematic history, while also providing information on where you can watch Going Places online.
Plot Summary
The story follows two disaffected drifters, Jean-Claude (Gérard Depardieu) and Pierrot (Patrick Dewaere), who roam the French countryside in search of pleasure and excitement. Both men are charming but lack direction, using their charisma to manipulate and exploit those they encounter.
Jean-Claude and Pierrot’s escapades involve a series of morally questionable and often criminal activities, including petty theft and sexual escapades. Their adventures are characterized by a lack of purpose and an embrace of hedonistic pleasures, which often lead to absurd and comedic situations.
The film’s plot is episodic, with each segment highlighting different aspects of the protagonists’ amoral behavior and the consequences that follow. Despite their lack of moral scruples, Jean-Claude and Pierrot are portrayed with a certain likability, and their misadventures provide both dark humor and social commentary.
One of the central themes of Going Places is the idea of freedom and rebellion against societal norms. The film explores how Jean-Claude and Pierrot’s disregard for conventional values leads them into increasingly outrageous situations. Their adventures challenge traditional morality and question the nature of personal freedom.
Direction and Cinematic Style
Bertrand Blier’s direction in Going Places is marked by a distinctive blend of comedy and satire. The film’s style is characterized by its irreverence and willingness to push boundaries, particularly in its portrayal of sexuality and moral ambiguity.
Blier employs a mix of slapstick and dark humor, often using the protagonists’ outlandish behavior to critique social and cultural norms. The film’s episodic structure allows for a variety of comedic scenarios, each reflecting different facets of the protagonists’ personalities and their interactions with the world around them.
The cinematography is straightforward but effective, capturing the rustic French landscapes and the often chaotic nature of Jean-Claude and Pierrot’s exploits. The film’s tone oscillates between lightheartedness and dark satire, creating a unique viewing experience that challenges conventional comedic expectations.
Performances
Gérard Depardieu and Patrick Dewaere deliver memorable performances as Jean-Claude and Pierrot, respectively. Depardieu’s portrayal of Jean-Claude combines charisma with a certain rebellious charm, making the character both likable and morally ambiguous. His performance captures the essence of the drifter’s carefree attitude and impulsive nature.
Patrick Dewaere’s Pierrot complements Depardieu’s Jean-Claude with a more unrestrained and erratic energy. Dewaere’s performance adds a layer of unpredictability to the character, making him a fitting counterpart to Jean-Claude’s more calculated demeanor. Together, Depardieu and Dewaere create a dynamic duo that drives the film’s comedic and satirical elements.
Supporting performances, including those from various characters the protagonists encounter, add depth and variety to the film. The interactions between Jean-Claude, Pierrot, and their various acquaintances highlight the protagonists’ ability to charm and manipulate those around them.
Themes Explored
Going Places explores several themes through its narrative and character dynamics. One of the primary themes is the rejection of societal norms and the pursuit of personal freedom. Jean-Claude and Pierrot’s actions reflect a desire to live outside conventional constraints, leading them to challenge traditional values and societal expectations.
The film also delves into the nature of hedonism and the consequences of pursuing pleasure at any cost. Jean-Claude and Pierrot’s escapades often result in chaotic and morally dubious situations, highlighting the inherent risks and absurdities of their hedonistic lifestyle.
Another theme is the critique of authority and societal structures. Through their interactions with various characters, Jean-Claude and Pierrot expose the hypocrisies and flaws within the systems they encounter. Their rebellion against authority figures and societal norms serves as a commentary on the rigidity and failings of conventional structures.
Criticism
While Going Places is celebrated for its bold and unconventional approach, it has also faced criticism for its controversial content and moral ambiguity. The film’s portrayal of sexuality and its disregard for traditional moral values may be unsettling to some viewers. Its episodic structure, while allowing for a variety of comedic scenarios, may also feel disjointed to those expecting a more cohesive narrative.
Additionally, the film’s irreverence and satirical elements may not resonate with all audiences, particularly those less familiar with or receptive to the French comedy genre. The blend of dark humor and social critique might be seen as overly provocative or lacking in substance by some viewers.
Where to Watch Going Places Online
Subscription Streaming Services
- Criterion Channel
Going Places is available for streaming on the Criterion Channel, a platform known for its curated collection of classic and influential films. If you’re a subscriber or interested in exploring classic and international cinema, this is an excellent option for watching the film. - Amazon Prime Video (with Criterion Channel add-on)
For Amazon Prime subscribers, adding the Criterion Channel to your Prime account provides access to Going Places and other classic films. This option allows you to stream the film through Amazon’s platform, offering convenience for Prime users.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video
Going Places is available for digital rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. This option allows you to rent the film for a specified period or purchase it for permanent access, with the convenience of streaming in high definition. - Apple TV
Apple TV offers Going Places for rental or purchase. If you prefer using Apple devices or streaming through the Apple TV app, this platform provides a straightforward way to access the film. - Google Play Movies
Google Play Movies provides the option to rent or buy Going Places. The platform is compatible with various devices, including Android phones, tablets, and smart TVs, making it a flexible choice for viewers. - YouTube Movies
YouTube Movies also offers Going Places for rent or purchase. Streaming through YouTube’s interface allows for easy access on a wide range of devices. - Vudu
Vudu provides another option for renting or purchasing Going Places. The platform supports high-definition streaming on various devices, including smart TVs and gaming consoles.
Conclusion
Going Places (1974) is a daring and unconventional French comedy that challenges societal norms with its audacious humor and satirical edge. Directed by Bertrand Blier and featuring standout performances by Gérard Depardieu and Patrick Dewaere, the film offers a unique blend of comedy, social critique, and hedonistic escapades.
While its controversial content and episodic structure may not appeal to everyone, Going Places remains a significant and influential work in French cinema. With various streaming and rental options available, it’s accessible for those interested in exploring classic and provocative films from the 1970s.
