Bertrand Tavernier: Interviews

Bertrand Tavernier is a French filmmaker who directed twenty-two feature films in an eclectic range of genres. He was deeply engaged with the pressing issues facing France and the world, and founded the Institut Lumière, which hosts retrospectives and an annual film festival. This collection contains numerous interviews translated from French and available in English for the first time, covering a vast range of topics, including the ways cinema can inspire the imagination and contribute to the broadest possible public conversation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 239 pages
Publication date: 19 April 2022
Publisher: University Press of Mississippi

Bertrand Tavernier, a renowned French filmmaker who emerged in the 1970s amidst the New Wave movement, left an indelible mark on the film industry. Over a span of nearly four decades, he directed twenty-two feature films, showcasing his versatility across diverse genres, from intimate family portraits to historical dramas and neo-Westerns. Tavernier's debut feature, L'Horloger de Saint-Paul (1974), earned him the prestigious Louis Delluc prize, establishing him as a public intellectual. Like his films, he delved deeply into pressing global issues such as the consequences of war, colonialism, the cost of heroism, and the transformative power of art. A passionate cinephile, Tavernier possessed extensive knowledge of world cinema, particularly American film. His roots lay in Lyon, the birthplace of cinema, where he founded and presided over the Institut Lumière, an institution dedicated to showcasing retrospectives and hosting an annual film festival in the very factory where the Lumière brothers made their groundbreaking films.

In this captivating collection, featuring numerous interviews translated from French and now accessible in English for the first time, Tavernier delves into the trajectory of his career, drawing inspiration from the legacy of the Lumière brothers. His overarching goal, akin to theirs, is to present the world to the world through the medium of cinema. An interview with Tavernier is a true delight, as it encompasses a wide range of topics. The interviews in this volume begin with discussions of his own films, providing insights into his creative process and the themes he explores. However, they extend far beyond his cinematic endeavors, touching upon various aspects of his life and artistic vision. At the heart of Tavernier's reflections are his profound thoughts about the power of cinema to ignite imagination and foster meaningful public discourse. He believes that films have the ability to transcend boundaries and connect people from different cultures and backgrounds, fostering empathy and understanding.

Through his interviews, Tavernier offers valuable insights into the art of filmmaking, sharing his experiences and perspectives on the craft. He discusses the challenges and rewards of working in the industry, the importance of storytelling, and the role of directors in shaping the narrative. He also reflects on the impact of cinema on society, discussing its ability to challenge societal norms, raise awareness about important issues, and inspire social change.

In conclusion, Bertrand Tavernier's life and career are a testament to his dedication to the art of filmmaking and his commitment to exploring the human experience. Through his diverse range of films and his thought-provoking interviews, Tavernier has left an indelible mark on the film industry, inspiring generations of filmmakers and audiences alike. This collection of interviews provides a valuable glimpse into the mind of a master storyteller, offering a deeper understanding of his creative process, his views on cinema, and his contribution to the broader cultural landscape.

Weight: 356g
Dimension: 151 x 230 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496840875