When observing the works of certain young filmmakers today, it often seems that they are unaware or uninterested in cinematic history prior to 1980. This statement suggests a narrow perspective on film history, focusing primarily on recent decades and disregarding earlier eras that significantly shaped contemporary cinema.
The quote by Jacques Rivette delves into the broader context of artistic education and cultural awareness. It highlights how younger creators sometimes limit their influence to more modern aesthetics and storytelling techniques while neglecting the foundational work and innovative styles from earlier periods. This can result in a lack of depth and diversity in creative expression, as well as an incomplete understanding of the evolution of film language and its historical significance. Rivette’s observation invites reflection on the importance of comprehensive education and appreciation for all eras of art.
Jacques Rivette was a prominent French filmmaker and critic known for his contributions to the Cahiers du Cinéma in the 1950s and his influential films such as "L’Amour fou" (1968) and "Out 1" (1971). He was one of the key figures in the French New Wave movement, known for his innovative narrative structures and explorations of film theory. His work often engaged with the complexities of character psychology and social dynamics through complex, experimental storytelling techniques.
