Search The Archive

Search the film archive

Vigo's first film, an impression of the French Riviera resort, is a savage and powerful work. Made under the influence of Bunuel it is as Vigo describes it a study of "a particular world on trial" . . . '"the last twitchings of a society that neglects its own responsibilities to the point of giving one nausea . . ." Concealed camera shooting results in some spectacular sequences of the 20's idle rich in contrast with the poor living in wretched conditions. It is a pitiless and indignant social document unique in its evocation of the pleasure city of the 20s and a reminder that Vigo was one of the greatest talents of the French cinema.