Eric Rohmer, Evidence

Eric Rohmer had already contributed an episode to the series, but had refused Labarthe’s constant requests to be the subject of one. Finally, Rohmer agreed, on the conditions that either Labarthe or critic Jean Douchet direct the film (in the end they collaborated) and that the film only be shown publicly after Rohmer’s death. Rohmer was filmed over eight days, and perhaps was never more candid with his comments on the New Wave, the relationship of literature and film, and a host of other topics. With the film edited and even praised by Rohmer himself, now Labarthe’s problem was convincing Rohmer to allow this treasure to be aired—which, happily, he eventually did. An Icarus Films Release.

Image courtesy of THE KOBAL COLLECTION

Series: NYFF50: Cinéastes/Cinema of Our Time

Venue: Howard Gilman Theater