Therese

Synopsis

Thérèse Desqueyroux, portrayed by Emmanuelle Riva in this 1962 French drama, is a compelling exploration of a woman's constrained existence within the rigid confines of early 20th-century French aristocracy. The film delves into Thérèse's inner turmoil and quest for freedom from an oppressive marriage and societal expectations. Set in a provincial French town, the narrative unfolds with a deep psychological insight into her character, revealing the silent frustrations and struggles that define her life. Drawing on Georges Simenon's novel, the film presents a poignant, introspective character study that highlights themes of autonomy, rebellion, and the pursuit of selfhood amid convention and repression.

Cast

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  Emmanuelle Riva

  Thérèse Desqueyroux

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  Philippe Noiret

  Bernard Desqueyroux

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  Édith Scob

  Anne De La Trave

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  Sami Frey

  Jean Azevedo

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  Renée Devillers

  Mme De La Trave

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  Jeanne Pérez

  Balionte

Reviews

Therese Desqueyroux has garnered a mixed yet generally favorable reception over the years. On IMDb, the film holds a solid rating of 7.2 out of 10, signaling appreciable audience engagement and approval. Critics have praised Emmanuelle Riva's subtle and nuanced performance, with many considering it a masterclass in restrained acting that powerfully conveys complex emotion. Rotten Tomatoes does not have a compiled score for this vintage film, reflecting the challenges of rating older, less mainstream international cinema. Nonetheless, film scholars often commend its atmospheric direction by Georges Franju and the faithful adaptation of Simenon's literary work, which emphasizes mood over melodrama. Some reviews note that the pacing may feel slow to contemporary viewers, and the film’s sparse style can render its emotional impact understated, leading to divided opinions. However, the sophisticated portrayal of Thérèse's psychological depth and the film’s elegant depiction of social constraints have cemented its status as a classic European art-house drama. It remains a significant piece for those interested in French cinema history and adaptations of literary works.