Husband for Sale

Synopsis

"Husband for Sale" (original title: "Un mari à prix fixe") is a 1965 French film starring Anna Karina, a seminal figure in the French New Wave cinema. The movie combines comedy and satirical social commentary, centered around the concept of marriage and relationships set against the backdrop of 1960s French society. It explores themes of love, societal expectations, and the commodification of marriage through a witty and engaging narrative. The film showcases Karina's charismatic performance, highlighting her ability to blend charm and nuance, and offers a sharp critique wrapped in lighthearted storytelling that reflects the era’s cultural shifts.

Cast

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  Anna Karina

  Béatrice Reinhof

• 

  Roger Hanin

  Romain de Brétigny

• 

  Christian de Tillière

  Stéphane

• 

  Gregor von Rezzori

  Konrad Reinhof

• 

  Marcel Charvey

  Me Luxeuil

• Marcelle Tassencourt

  Gertrude Luxeuil

Reviews

Critical reception of "Husband for Sale" remains mixed to positive, with appreciation largely directed towards Anna Karina's compelling performance. On IMDb, the film holds a modest rating, reflecting its status as a niche classic appreciated primarily by enthusiasts of French New Wave cinema. Although it does not hold a rating on Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic due to its vintage and limited modern exposure, contemporary critics often praise its clever script and Karina's magnetic screen presence. According to cinema historian reviews, the film serves as an insightful commentary on marital conventions, with a tone that oscillates between comedic and thought-provoking. Some critiques note that the film's pacing and narrative style may feel dated to modern audiences yet commend its artistic value and the socio-cultural insights it provides into 1960s France. Overall, "Husband for Sale" is regarded as a charming if somewhat overlooked piece that reflects Anna Karina's unique contribution to cinema and the era's filmic experimentation.