Betty Blue: Original Theatrical Release

Kevin Taft READ TIME: 2 MIN.

One of the most controversial and beloved movies of the early 80's arrives on Blu-ray in a gorgeous - no, actually stunning Blu-ray transfer. Part of the Jean-Jacques Beineix ("Diva") collection, "Betty Blue", the hypersexual drama of love and madness starring the stunning Beatrice Dalle and the swoon-worthy Jean-Hugues Anglade.

Based on the novel by Philippe Dijan, "Betty Blue" tells of the romance of Zorg and Betty, two free-living and free-loving twenty-somethings who wander from job to job trying to find their way. While Zorg is trying to write a book, Betty finds herself working at a restaurant while they spend their waking hours bonding both mentally and physically. But when a publisher rejects Zorg's book, Betty is thrown into a rage that marks the beginning of her downward spiral into madness. The love between Zorg and Betty is tested, but the testament to that love is what makes this film not only emotionally compelling, but also one of the greatest love stories of all time.

Noted for its frank sexuality, this film is not for the prudish. Love scenes are very graphic which is why the film became something of a cult hit. Even so, it was nominated for nine Cesar awards, as well as a Best Foreign Language Oscar.

The beauty of "Betty Blue" goes beyond the story into the look of the film, which uses the colors blue and red to stunning effect. Cinematographer Jean-Francois Robin has created a film that looks as beautiful as its characters, and the score by Gabriel Yared gives the film a sense of whimsy and playfulness that is the essence of Betty's character. If you've never experienced "Betty Blue," now is certainly the time.

The only Bonus Feature is an in-depth interview with director Jean-Jacques Beineix that covers not only this film, but his entire oeuvre.

BETTY BLUE: ORIGINAL THEATRICAL RELEASE
Blu-ray $29.95
www.cinemalibrestudio.com


by Kevin Taft

Kevin Taft is a screenwriter/critic living in Los Angeles with an unnatural attachment to 'Star Wars' and the desire to be adopted by Steven Spielberg.

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