Band of Outsiders (1964) Review

Title: Band of Outsiders
Year: 1964
Director: Jean Luc Godard
Country: France
Language: French

Quentin Tarantino named his production studio Band Apart because of his love for Jean Luc Goard's Band of Outsiders. It is is an important film that influenced many modern day Directors. It is a film with attitude; iconic for being the epitome of "cool.". It feels timeless, effortless and free-spirited. Its the movie you wish you could make. 

Two crooks with a fondness for old Hollywood B-movies convince a languages student (Anna Karina) to help them commit a robbery.

An arthouse neo-noir gangster heist picture with a side of romance, Band of Outsiders is an incredibly charming caper comedy. Its both a deep film - about the alienation of youth - and a fun work to escape into. Motivated by freedom, our characters are surprisingly nuanced and relatable. 

With Band of Outsiders,  Godard adds his own flair to a genre popularized in America. He combines gritty cinematography with a jazzy score. He films a dance sequence where, in narration, the character reveal their inner desires. He breaks the fourth wall whenever he can. 

I can certainly see why post-modern filmmakers would love Band of Outsiders. It's a brilliant, enjoyable masterpiece that I'd love to come back to. It is Godard's most accessible film and definitely a worthwhile viewing.