About Le Bonheur

Directed by Agnès Varda, "Le Bonheur" (French for "Happiness") is a thought-provoking drama about love, fidelity, and happiness. François, a young carpenter working for his uncle, leads a peaceful life with his wife Thérèse and their two young children. Their life appears picturesque and tranquil until François encounters Émilie, a postal worker, and begins an affair with her. François relishes in his own idea of happiness, which spirals into tragedy.

Making / Production

The film was produced by Mag Bodard under the banner of Parc Film. Claude Beausoleil was the director of photography, bringing to life Varda's unique visual style. The setting beautifully captures the French countryside, with its lush landscapes serving as an almost idyllic background for a story that ultimately deals with more complex and dark themes.

Actors

• Jean-Claude Drouot as François: Jean Claude Drouot portrays the character of François, a blissful carpenter who struggles with his conception of happiness.
• Marie-France Boyer as Émilie: Boyer's role as Émilie, a postal worker who becomes François' lover, exudes charm and complexity.
• Claire Drouot as Thérèse: Claire Drouot, the real-life wife of Jean-Claude, plays Thérèse, François' faithful wife, with a quiet dignity.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The real-life family of Jean-Claude Drouot, including his wife Claire Drouot and their children Olivier and Sandrine, portrayed the family of François in the film.
• "Le Bonheur" was the first color film by director Agnès Varda.

Quotes

• "Happiness is not always fun." - François
• "I feel like I'm in a Russian novel." - Émilie

Music, Soundtrack

• The film features the music of Mozart, including excerpts from his Clarinet Quintet in A Major, serving as the narrative's emotional undercurrent.