French filmmaker Claire Denis is known for her naturalistic filmmaking style and insightful reflections on life, colonialism, and womanhood. In a recent interview, she shared her top ten movie recommendations, offering a diverse range of genres and styles that highlight her eclectic taste and appreciation for challenging and evocative cinema.
Among her classic Hollywood and European recommendations is “Suddenly, Last Summer” (1959), a psychological drama featuring Elizabeth Taylor’s powerhouse performance and a shockingly bold exploration of trauma and secrets. She also recommends “Summer with Monika” (1953), an Ingmar Bergman film that hauntingly portrays young love and burgeoning adulthood, known for its iconic imagery and passionate encounters.
Denis’s list includes unconventional gems like “Dillinger is Dead” (1969), a surreal Italian character study that examines identity and societal pressures through the lens of domestic life. Another recommendation, “Trust” (1990), is a dark comedy exploring the unconventional relationship between a pregnant high school dropout and an electronics repairman.
Michel Piccoli in Dillinger Is Dead (1969) (Via IMDB)
Her appreciation for independent and uncompromising works is evident in her selections of “Gate of Flesh” (1964), a visually striking Japanese film exploring power dynamics and ethics within a brothel in post-war Tokyo, and “Tout va Bien” (1972), a controversial French drama that blends documentary and fiction to critique capitalism and the French student protests of 1968.
Denis also highlights underrated masterpieces such as “Cemetery of Splendor” (2015), a contemplative Thai drama that tackles themes of loneliness, spirituality, and the search for meaning, and “The Chase” (1966), a gripping Texas-set drama known for its intense performances and exploration of social tensions.
Through these recommendations, Denis provides a personal touch that reflects her own cinematic influences and her love for films that challenge viewers, evoke strong emotions, and showcase exceptional artistry. Her selections offer insights into the significance of these films and the elements that resonate with her as a filmmaker.
