Adieu, Lacan

Adieu Lacan is an extraordinary rendering of a psychoanalyst working with a patient. Based on a book, which was the story of an actual analysis with Lacan, this film makes a gripping drama out of the experience. Filmed in Black and White the cinematography is exquisite and the acting remarkable. I could watch this again and again (if only it was available to stream here in Aotearoa/New Zealand)

I thoroughly enjoyed watching this film. As a psychoanalyst, I would say it is a gem of a film; in my opinion, a true masterpiece that so gently, subtly and accurately portrays an analytic treatment, and more specifically a treatment that proceeds along the lines of a Lacanian cure. An excellent film for analysts and non-analysts alike.

Deeply moving, beautifully filmed and acted story of a woman searching for understanding of her life decisions, which direction to go. This search takes place in psychoanalytic room of Jacques Lacan, the famous French psychoanalyst. We never leave this room, bear witness to the patient and the doctor.

Fascinating experience.

First of all, I loved "Adieu Lacan" so much! I watched it twice and I knew very little about Lacan to start with. The direction, cinematography, and acting were stellar.

I want to preface my review by saying that if you don't care much for introspection, the human condition, or deliberately paced films, Adieu Lacan is not for you! This film is made up of a series of sessions between a young woman who has immigrated to Paris from Brazil, and her therapist Lacan, who is an old frenchman. Not only do we witness her processing her story, but we get to see Lacan's side as he engages in questioning the process and his place in it. That's something I wish all therapists did!

I like having the opportunity to find out what a person is truly thinking and feeling (even if those people are subjects of a fictional film) and Adieu Lacan allows for that. The film is very thoughtful and also very well thought out. As a viewer I wondered how the film would stay visually engaging. I was rewarded by beautiful and contemplative compositions and editing. I watched this film a few months ago and it is still with me.

I think this is superb filmmaking!