Cocteau on the Film

by Jean Cocteau, Vera Traill (Translator)

A conversation with Jean Cocteau recorded by Andre Fraigneau. 30 illustrations.

Genres: Film

141 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1951

About the author

Jean Maurice Eugène Clément Cocteau (5 July 1889 – 11 October 1963) was a French poet, novelist, dramatist, designer, boxing manager, playwright and filmmaker. Along with other Surrealists of his generation (Jean Anouilh and René Char for example) Cocteau grappled with the "algebra" of verbal codes old and new, mise en scène language and technologies of modernism to create a paradox: a classical avant-garde. His circle of associates, friends and lovers included Jean Marais, Henri Bernstein, Colette, Édith Piaf, whom he cast in one of his one act plays entitled Le Bel Indifferent in 1940, and Raymond Radiguet.

His work was played out in the theatrical world of the Grands Theatres, the Boulevards and beyond during the Parisian epoque he both lived through and helped define and create. His versatile, unconventional approach and enormous output brought him international acclaim.

Reviews

[Johnny Clyde · Rating 3 out of 5]

A bit disappointing, but that could be that so much went over my head. I was really interesting in reading about how he filmed and only got the answer to that question at the very end. His thoughts on cinema are very interesting but very heady and maybe I just wasn't really ready for it.

[Max Fry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Keen to revisit after I've actually watched some of his films lol.

[reveurdart · Rating 5 out of 5]

André Fraigneau in a compelling conversation with Jean Cocteau. Cocteau gives answers full of passion and depth; he took his time in answering each question with heart and richness. I liked that. I would recommend this book on its own and alongside the books: Cocteau on the Film and Beauty and the Beast: Diary of a Film.

[Tosh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fascinating book length Q&A with Jean Cocteau. Like Mishima, he also had a 'public' appearance. A wonderful figure who also happens to be a good writer, interesting poet, a superb visual artist and a genius as a filmmaker.