Au Hasard Balthazar

Synopsis

Au Hasard Balthazar, a 1966 French film directed by Robert Bresson, portrays the life of a donkey named Balthazar as it endures various hardships and mistreatments by different owners. The story unfolds in a small rural town, where Balthazar is passed on from one owner to another, experiencing both kindness and cruelty. Through Balthazar's journey, the film explores themes of innocence, suffering, and the intrinsic goodness that exists in the world. As the narrative progresses, the audience witnesses the parallel struggles faced by the human characters, reflecting on the complexities of life and the capacity for both compassion and cruelty within society.

Cast

• 

  Anne Wiazemsky

  Marie

• Walter Green

  Jacques

• François Lafarge

  Gérard

• Jean-Claude Guilbert

  Arnold

• Philippe Asselin

  Marie's Father

• Pierre Klossowski

  Merchant

Reviews

Au Hasard Balthazar has garnered critical acclaim since its release, captivating audiences and critics alike with its poignant storytelling and powerful imagery. Rotten Tomatoes rated the film at a remarkable 100%, praising its emotional depth and the profound impact of Bresson's minimalist approach to filmmaking. IMDb users rated the movie 7.7 out of 10, highlighting the captivating performances and the profound themes explored in the narrative. Metacritic gave the film an exceptional score of 98 out of 100, commending its artistic integrity and the masterful direction by Bresson. Critic Pauline Kael described the film as 'a mesmerizing exploration of humanity's flaws and resilience, portrayed through the eyes of a humble donkey.' The New York Times hailed it as 'a timeless masterpiece that resonates with both simplicity and profundity.' Au Hasard Balthazar is a cinematic gem that continues to leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.

See also

L'Argent

Mrs. Miniver

Mouchette

Alexander Nevsky