Le Déjeuner sur l’herbe (1959) - film review

Etienne Alexis, candidate for president of Europe, is a well-known biologist who believes that artificial insemination and therapy for amorous desire will lead to a better society.  To celebrate his forthcoming marriage to a frigid German scout mistress, he hosts a picnic in the countryside.  Here, a shepherd playing a flute unleashes a sudden windstorm which pushes Etienne into the arms of a country woman who is his greatest admirer...

Although nearing the end of his film-making career, Renoir still managed to deliver this charming satirical comedy.  Whilst the film lacks the punch and intensity of the great director’s earlier films, it provides an amusing tongue-in-cheek swipe at scientific progress and re-affirms Renoir’s belief that there is no substitute for love, even in the most modern of societies.

It was a timely film, made during an era when there was a widespread belief that science would fundamentally change society and solve all of mankind’s ills – hence it is perfectly credible that a scientist could end up as leader of a united Europe.

The film is beautifully filmed, having the lustre of an impression’s painting (such as those painted by Renoir’s own celebrated father).  It is rather appropriate that the film borrows the title of a famous painting by Manet.  Both works celebrate the need for mankind, however civilised he becomes, to hold on to his primitive desires, hence to remain human.

© James Travers 2001

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