La flambeuse

La Flambeuse is a bitter and pleasant,average sketch of manners, remarkable for two performances,that of Mrs. Massari and that of Blain. Mrs. Massari acts exquisitely,very restrained and sober;she is delightful to watch.As a good-looker,Mrs. Massari gives the movie a certain sexual thrill.Her performance is flawless,fine and natural: restrained, economical,dignified,lucid,minimalist--electrifying.Her character ("Louise")is agreeable and seducing.La Flambeuse is a well-made portrait of a woman.

Blain does also a very good role:a husband as repugnant and disgusting as he should be.The viewer is urged to take an emotional stand:sympathy towards "Louise",and dislike for the sticky,mollusk husband of hers.

The movie is certainly interesting and worth watching,and a bit too long;the story is somehow pointless,watery and not too clever.The bistro scenes are friendly and amusing.