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I never thought much about The City of Lights until Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris. I honestly haven’t traveled that much and where I have gone, English is the official language (despite having a sister that lives in Chile). I’m sure I'd be a little lost anywhere else. But I find myself thinking more of Paris these days. After you watch today's scene, I’m sure you'll see why.
In this opening scene of Midnight, Allen catches the city in such a way that you want to drop what you're doing and hop on a plane. Like, now. Its scenery, culture, famous landmarks, architecture - it all looks so inviting. And it's set to a tune called "Si Tu Vois Ma Mère" by Sidney Bechet, a song that just sounds like Paris to me. Monsieur Bechet was born in New Orleans, but moved to France later in life (and died in Paris). So he got it. Even if you don’t watch the scene all the way through I’m sure you’ll find yourself listening to his song.
I honestly don’t know much about Woody Allen. Truthfully, I haven’t seen many of his films (trust me, I want to rectify this). But I love Midnight in Paris. Any movie that can make me like Owen Wilson again has to be good.
Enjoy today's scene. And answer me this: if you could go to any country or city - in any time period or decade - where would you go?
P.S. Recall our recent FSF featuring the opening scene from The Shining. They're sort of the antithesis of one another in a way. Two great openers, but this one makes me a lot happier.
Yep, probably my favorite scene of the film as well, and maybe my favorite intro to any Woody Allen film.
ReplyDeleteAnd place, any time? Hmmm, Italy, now. I've always wanted to go there.
Alex - I had a feeling you'd like this scene. I know you like Allen - and it's such a standout segment.
DeleteItaly would be awesome! Thanks for reading.
The photography from that opening scene is great, I also have a soft spot for the ending of Midnight in Paris.
ReplyDeleteTo answer your final question, for me, it's not about where, it's about who I'm with. I mean it would be fun to travel back in time, but if I didn't know anyone, hmm, it would kind of suck after a while. Anyway, when and where? I'd like to find out if Shakespeare really was Shakespeare :)
Chris - Yeah, every shot in this opening scene is gorgeous. I really need to watch Midnight again - I don't really remember the ending that well, aside from the plot.
DeleteIt would definitely suck to be a stranger if you traveled back in time. Gil was lucky that he ran into friendly people like Zelda and F. Scott.
Shakespeare, eh? That would be interesting. Thanks for reading!
Love your choice for this week! This is one of my favorite movies of all time, and one of my favorite openings. Being a vintage gal at heart, I'd probably head to Paris in the 20s or Hollywood, California in the 1950s and try to sneak onto of the studio lots. Maybe get discovered by a talent scout! :D
ReplyDeleteKaty - I'm glad you like the scene! It's definitely hard to dislike it.
DeleteI would have to visit Paris in the '20s as well. Midnight makes it look so great. Hollywood would be fun too. Thanks for reading and commenting! Drop by any time.
This is a great choice Robert. I was really loved this moment because it was not your typical opening for a film and that'swhat made it stand out.
ReplyDeleteAs for places I would love to travel to Europe in the 60's and check out the movie culture there
Vern - It really is a breath of fresh air. There's something to be said for opening scenes that take their time like that.
DeleteGreat choice on Europe/the '60s!