The Things of Life (1970)

The Story

Introduced by Janice Tong

Sautet’s first stylish romantic melodrama, and first collaboration with Michel Piccoli and Romy Schneider, established his international reputation. The film begins with the aftermath of a violent car crash along a rural motorway. As Piccoli, lies in a semi-conscious stupor amidst the burning wreckage of his MG, his life flashes before his eyes—chronicling his relationship with two very different women: his dutiful, long-suffering wife (Léa Massari) and his adoring, free-spirited mistress (Schneider). A masterful portrait of a man literally and figuratively caught at life’s crossroads. 

Rating

M

Cast

Michel Piccoli, Romy Schneider, Lea Massari, Gérard Lartigau

Director

Claude Sautet