The Golden Age (L’Âge d’Or) – Feature Film Review

‘May 1967. A penniless Franco-American producer meets an ambitious French theatre actress in Paris. Both desperate to change the world, they decide to embark on an artistic project together, ending up in a small village in the South of France: Saint-Tropez.’

Jenna Suru’s period drama debut, The Golden Age, is gilded in the essence of an artistic past. We are immediately cast back to 60s Paris with a shot of the Notre Dame Cathedral followed by some automotive nostalgia. The beautiful dream-like quality of the film is enhanced tenfold by the excellently crafted mise-en-scene; the memories of times gone by are captured visually with flair.  

Sebastian (Sebastien Cipolla) is a struggling film producer trying to escape his mounting debts. Things begin to look up for him, however, as he starts to uncover everything he could have dreamed of in Paris. Angèle (Jenna Suru) is an actress hoping of breaking away from the stage and onto the big screen. Their connection is immediate. Joined in a search for artistry they being to hunt for inspiration to create something the world has never seen.

The audience join the characters in their exploration of Paris and then San Tropez. The beautiful scenery is captured with tenderness by the cinematography. The Golden Age meditates on France, Frenchness, art and life. Sebastian and Angèle remain ever focused on their project, even as their romance becomes more all-encompassing and intense.

But how will the pair resist the temptation of success on a silver platter? Angèle is offered a once-in-a-lifetime acting role which she turns down to work with Sebastian. But his commitment wavers slightly when he is offered his dream job. It’s easy to lose sight of the world you are trying to create when the world you wanted to escape suddenly beings working for you.

There is strong character development throughout, especially in the protagonists. The more perhipheral British characters were a humorous and enjoyable addition. Cipolla and Suru carry the film well with their performances, creating engaging and believable characters with real connection and chemistry. We are treated to a real Hollywood ending that reflects the hard work and determination of Angèle and Sebastian.

Jenna Suru magnificently moves behind and in front of the camera as both the director and star. The Golden Age is a touching credit to the artists that came before us.

Watch the trailer now!

6 thoughts on “The Golden Age (L’Âge d’Or) – Feature Film Review”

  1. Wow – such a stellar review. Thank you so much Indy Reviews for celebrating artists who bring change with us, all caught up in the artistic joy of Saint-Tropez! We’re very thankful.

    1. So glad you found the site useful! Drop me an email if you have any questions – I’m happy to help!

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