Querelle (1982)

About Querelle

'Querelle' is a 1982 West German-French English-language drama film directed by Rainer Werner Fassbinder. The film is based on French author Jean Genet’s novel 'Querelle de Brest' published in 1947. It centers around a Belgian sailor named Querelle, his complex relationship with other men, and his struggle to deal with his homosexuality in a hyper-masculine environment.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Rainer Werner Fassbinder, a significant figure in the New German Cinema movement. Despite Querelle being his last film before his untimely death, Fassbinder maintains his signature style and deliberative pacing throughout this movie. This film was produced by Sam Waynberg and Antenna-Film.

Actors

• Brad Davis plays the role of 'Georges Querelle', the titular character. His nuanced and introverted portrayal of the complicated character leaves a lasting impression on the viewer.
• Franco Nero as 'Lieutenant Seblon' brings sincerity to his character's unrequited love for Querelle.
• Jeanne Moreau as 'Lysiane' beautifully portrays the role of the brooding bar owner and Querelle's object of interest.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Querelle was the final film of director Rainer Werner Fassbinder before his death.
• The film’s unique look is due to cinematographer Xaver Schwarzenberger shooting the entire film through a light smoky haze.
• Despite the film's poor initial reception, it has since become a cult classic and is recognized as an important work in queer cinema.

Awards

Brad Davis was nominated for a Best Actor award at the Mystfest Film Festival for his role as 'Querelle'.

Quotes

• "A man must prove that he's a man."
• "For some men, the stronger sex is women."

Music, Soundtrack

• The score was composed by Peer Raben, a long-time collaborator of Fassbinder.
• 'Each Man Kills the Thing He Loves' is the main theme, sung by Jeanne Moreau.