The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie-1972

Director Luis Buñuel

Starring Fernando Rey, Paul Frankeur

Scott’s Review #13

Reviewed June 17, 2014

Grade: A-

The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie (1972) is a wonderful French satire by Director Luis Buñuel.

The movie is very strange- three well-to-do couples meander from dinner party to dinner party and, due to circumstances beyond their control (an incorrect date, a mysterious corpse, and a military raid), never end up sitting down and enjoying a meal together.

How the individuals are wealthy is a bit vague, though there is mention of drug smuggling.

It’s unclear who is matched up with whom since frolicking amongst them is commonplace. Several of them experience odd fantasy/dream sequences throughout and are often seen wandering down the road.

The entire film is tongue-in-cheek, poking fun at the wealthy class.

It’s offbeat but delightful.

Oscar Nominations: 1 win-Best Screenplay Based on Factual Material or Material Not Previously Produced or Published, Best Foreign Language Film (won)