REVIEW: “Nouvelle Vague” (2025)

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As a film buff, I was completely blown away by Richard Linklater’s latest. It’s a gorgeous tribute to the French New Wave, a movement I absolutely adore. But it’s more than just a historical recreation – it really feels like being dropped into that era and witnessing the birth of a new kind of filmmaking. It’s a celebration of those incredibly independent and innovative directors who completely changed the game, not just in France, but everywhere, including Hollywood.

I have a deep fondness for the French New Wave. It was through discovering this era of filmmaking that I truly became a film enthusiast, expanding my appreciation beyond what I’d seen before. While I enjoyed foreign films previously, it was the Nouvelle Vague that revealed the innovative styles and influences that shaped modern cinema. I especially loved its daring, experimental approach and rebellious spirit.

As a huge film buff, I wasn’t at all surprised by how beautifully Linklater paid homage to the French New Wave in “Nouvelle Vague.” It’s not just that the story feels inspired by the movement, he actually made the film like one. He shot in black and white, using that classic 1.37 aspect ratio, and even incorporated those signature jump cuts. What really struck me was how he captured that feeling of improvisation that defined the era, and the fact that the film is almost entirely in French – which I really appreciated!

The film “Nouvelle Vague” depicts the making of Jean-Luc Godard’s iconic film, “Breathless,” with Guillaume Marbeck portraying Godard with a relaxed and natural style. The story starts in 1958 at the Paris premiere of “La Passé du Diable,” where Godard and his friends – fellow filmmakers and film enthusiasts François Truffaut (played by Adrien Rouyard), Claude Chabrol (Antoine Besson), and Suzanne Schiffman (Jodie Ruth-Forest) – playfully discuss the current state of cinema.

Feeling left out as the only film critic from Cahiers du Cinéma who hadn’t yet directed a film, Godard was finally given the opportunity thanks to his friend and producer, Georges de Beauregard. He was assigned to direct “Breathless,” a story idea developed by Truffaut, who had recently achieved success with his first film, “The 400 Blows.” With financial support from de Beauregard, encouragement from Rossellini, and guidance from Melville, Godard embarked on his journey as a filmmaker.

Godard convinced Jean-Paul Belmondo to star in his film, even though Belmondo’s agent was hesitant. He also successfully cast American actress Jean Seberg, despite her initial doubts. Once he had his two leads, Godard quickly moved into filming, ignoring traditional filmmaking rules and improvising as he went. This unconventional approach often confused and frustrated those working on the film.

Linklater dedicates a significant portion of his film to documenting the twenty-day production of “Breathless,” paying tribute to Godard’s bold, unconventional filmmaking style. The movie reveals the chaotic creative energy behind Godard’s work, which often frustrated his producer and confused the crew. Godard’s script wasn’t fixed; he frequently assembled scenes spontaneously, sometimes filming ideas he’d had the previous night, and on other days, simply waiting for inspiration to strike while relaxing in cafés and playing pinball.

Jean almost gave up multiple times because the film lacked organization, but like the rest of the team, she was won over by Godard’s relaxed and innovative attitude. Linklater’s film shares those same qualities – it’s playful and easygoing, reminiscent of his most beloved, casual films. However, it also clearly shows a deep respect for both the New Wave period of filmmaking and the art of filmmaking in general.

“Nouvelle Vague” is clearly a film made with deep love and knowledge of cinema, primarily for those who share that passion. Viewers unfamiliar with the French New Wave might find it challenging, but anyone interested in film history and filmmaking will likely enjoy it. Linklater directs with a relaxed and natural style, successfully capturing the spirit of the New Wave. From the actor’s striking resemblance to Godard to the charming performance by Deutch, and the impressive visual effects that bring late 1950s Paris to life, the film is a beautiful tribute to the art of cinema.

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2025-11-13 18:58