What It’s About
Valentine (Jacob) is a model in Geneva who seems adrift as she carries on a long-distance relationship with her suspicious boyfriend. One day, she hits a dog with her car, and locates its owner, a retired judge (Trintignant). Far apart in age, the two have nothing in common, yet a strange bond develops. Meanwhile, the handsome Auguste (Lorit), lives right across the street from Valentine. They seem an ideal match, but he too is dealing with a tricky romance. Will they ever meet?
Why We Love It
The final chapter in the “Three Colors” trilogy further explores the director’s fascination with the randomness of life and fate. Jacob’s Valentine is a gentle, ethereal soul who hasn’t found her footing and goes where life takes her. At first, she’s perplexed by the judge (a terrific Trintignant), who lives alone and listens to wiretaps of his adulterous neighbor. What could these two offer each other? And what about Auguste? Could he live just steps away from Valentine and still never meet her? Kieslowski offers no clear, easy answers, which is the point. For a slice of sublime art cinema, see “Red”.