About The Testament of Orpheus

The Testament of Orpheus is a surrealistic film directed, written by and starring Jean Cocteau. It's the third film in the Orphic Trilogy, following "The Blood of a Poet" (1930) and "Orpheus" (1950). In this film, Cocteau, appearing as an 18th-century poet, travels through time on a quest for divine wisdom. In a mystical underworld, he meets his own characters from his previous works like Orpheus, Eurydice, The Princess, and others related to the myth of Orpheus.

Making / Production

Given the fact that it was filmed in 1960, The Testament of Orpheus was created during a period when special effects and surrealists films were not commonplace. However, Cocteau, with his innovative and artful thinking, could create a film that tests the bounds of conventional cinema. Jean-Pierre Melville, a well-known French filmmaker, was a technical consultant on the movie.

Actors

• Jean Cocteau as Le poète: Cocteau provides a wonderfully introspective performance as the main character, representing an abstract version of himself.
• François Périer as Heurtebise: Giving a stoic yet touching performance, Heurtebise acts as the intermediary between Cocteau’s poet and the supernatural world.
• Maria Casares as The Princess: Casares reprised her role from Orpheus and flawlessly plays the part of the mythical figure.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Not only was Cocteau the director and writer, but also he starred in the movie and played multiple roles.
• Famous artists such as Pablo Picasso, Yul Brynner, and Charles Aznavour made cameo appearances in the movie.
• Cocteau made this film as a farewell to cinema; it was his final film as a director.

Awards

The Testament of Orpheus may not have won any specific awards but it is highly praised and considered a masterpiece in the world of cinema for its unique storytelling and innovative filmmaking techniques.

Quotes

• "My misfortune is that I still resemble a man too much. I must absolve myself from humanity."/ Cocteau's character says.

Music, Soundtrack

• The soundtrack was composed and conducted by Georges Auric, a frequent collaborator of Cocteau. His music contributes significantly to the existential and surreal aura of the film.