Alice and Martin

Synopsis

Alice and Martin (Alice et Martin) is a 1998 French drama directed by André Téchiné, featuring Juliette Binoche as Alice, a successful businesswoman confronting the emotional turbulence of her complex relationship with Martin, a troubled man grappling with his past. The film explores themes of love, vulnerability, and personal healing as their intense connection evolves amidst secrets and psychological struggles. Set against atmospheric urban and coastal backdrops, the narrative delves into the challenges faced by two individuals trying to navigate intimacy and trust while confronting inner demons. With a nuanced portrayal of character psychology, Alice and Martin presents a poignant look at human fragility and resilience.

Cast

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  Juliette Binoche

  Alice

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  Alexis Loret

  Martin Sauvagnac

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  Mathieu Amalric

  Benjamin Sauvagnac

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  Carmen Maura

  Jeanine

• 

  Jean-Pierre Lorit

  Frederic Sauvagnac

• 

  Marthe Villalonga

  Lucie

Reviews

Critically, "Alice and Martin" received a generally positive but mixed reception. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 64% approval rating, indicating that critics found it to be a compelling if somewhat uneven drama. The consensus recognizes strong performances, particularly Juliette Binoche's emotive portrayal, though some reviewers noted that the pacing and complexity of the plot could be challenging for some viewers. IMDb users rate the movie at 6.3/10, reflecting moderate audience appreciation but a divided response. Metacritic scores it 68 out of 100, suggesting generally favorable reviews overall. Critics from major outlets praised the film's atmospheric direction and character depth; The New York Times highlighted Binoche's "subtle and deeply human" performance, while Variety commended Téchiné's "skillful handling of emotional intricacies." However, some reviews mentioned that the film's somber tone and intricate storytelling might not appeal to all audiences, describing it as "demanding but rewarding". Ultimately, "Alice and Martin" is recognized for its artistic ambition and strong acting, even if it elicits a polarized reaction regarding narrative clarity and emotional accessibility.