Z (1969)
Z (1969) 6/10
1969 Canne Film Festival:
Best Actor (Jean-Louis Trintignant)
Jury Prize
1969 Academy Awards:
Best Film Editing
Best Foreign Language Film (Algeria)
To appreciate Z, one must understand the socio-political context this was based upon. No doubt, in 1969, it would have been a socially relevant commentary, but in 2006, it feels dated and some of the scenes are unintentionally funny. This detracts from the core strength of the film.
As a political film, Z is successful in its depiction of a troubled era. As a thriller, its actually fairly bland by today’s standards. It might even work as a comedy, with some unintentionally comic moments (at least, i think the director wasn’t aiming for humor). The film is remarkable for its depiction of the civil law process, which for most parts is reasonably accurate. It is also a stirring look at corruption and a decaying system.
I’m cutting Z quite a bit of slack here considering that it is a 1969 film, but it does have some glaring weakness. Irene Papas, who plays the widow of an assasinated senator, has several cringe-worthy scenes of bad acting. Plus, there are some inexplicable and confusing flashbacks which confuses the audience. And there is the whole corniness of the issue. I mean, the assasination comes about by a bumbling attempt that involves a lorry, drunk driving and a club. Have they ever heard of guns? Plus the supposed goons are like probably the dumbest villians ever. Imagine this: a guy involved in an assasination attempt actually asks to have his name featured on the paper. Or another sequence narrated by Christopher Null:
And a horde of absolutely idiotic conspirators don’t help the cover-up, either. Example (paraphrased) — Crook: “Today’s paper has an incriminating picture of me so I came to the hospital to yell at the witness!” Judge: “Today’s paper wasn’t delivered. Who told you to lie?” Crook: “Oooooooh no! I am caught!”
One side effect of these caricatures of bumbling goons is that the film is often filled with comic moments. These moments of brevity help make the film more interesting, even though they ironically detract from the deeper political message.
Ultimately, Z is a watchable and solid film, although judging by the many awards it won, i was somewhat disappointed by the final product.
