Special agent Lemmy Caution (Eddie Constantine) is sent to the distant city of Alphaville to investigate the mysterious disappearances of some of his fellow agents and the oppressive supercomputer Alpha 60. Before long it becomes clear that he must also assassinate Alpha 60’s creator (Howard Vernon) before his influence can spread to other cities. But Caution soon finds himself under the influence of an emotion that is new to him, love, when he meets a beautiful woman (Anna Karina).
Out of all the directors of the nouvelle vague film movement, Jean-Luc Godard is the hardest to pin down. His experimental style reached a new level with the creation of ALPHAVILLE (1965) (aka ALPHAVILLE A STRANGE ADVENTURE OF LEMMY CAUTION). At once a minimalist sci-fi adventure about human emotion and a bizarre entry into a popular crime series. It’s an odd offshoot of Lemmy Caution movies starring singer/ actor Eddie Constantine (THE LONG GOOD FRIDAY), which predated James Bond and other popular spy series. Sadly these films are still lacking official releases in the States.
In terms of science fiction, ALPHAVILLE would have a lasting effect on stories of human alienation and isolation caused by technology. The DNA of the noir story mixed with machines and the meaning of life would later bloom in Ridley Scott’s BLADE RUNNER and Mamoru Oshii’s GHOST IN THE SHELL. Godard is still playful with his attempts to showcase the meaning of words. But it’s the theme of oppressed love and emotion that makes the film work.
As time goes on it becomes clear just how funny Godard’s dry humor and intellectual style are. ALPHAVILLE is a bit of a comedy in how it demonstrates the noir narrative and even basic fight scenes. All the violence and macho elements of spy thrillers are stripped to its basics and thrown into a loop. Godard also reshapes the character of Lemmy Caution into a blank slate that would fit right at home with Harrison Ford as Deker in BLADE RUNNER. The cinematography of the great Raoul Coutard also shows how rough and stone-like he is. As for the rest of the film Coutard’s photography pushes the boundaries of noir to their limits and makes something futuristic.
Anna Karina (BAND OF OUTSIDERS) showcases some truly odd acting choices but still comes off as a charming outsider. The camera is simply in love with her and it’s hard not to feel it. Jess Franco regular, Howard Vernon (THE AWFUL DR ORLOFF) is cold and raises his few scenes to be some of the best in the whole film. Eddie Constantine is the main draw for me. This was my introduction to the actor and his most famous role, and with this viewing it shows just how iconic he has become. I hope someone releases his other French films soon.
Kino Lorber gives ALPHAVILLE the star treatment on Blu-ray with a nice selection of extras and a nice transfer. Made from a new 4K restoration, this is the best this Godard classic has ever looked. The picture is near perfect with sharp focus and smooth blacks. The Depth of the image is simply stunning. The 2.0 French DTS-HD MA audio mix is likewise impressive with a clear sound and no hiss or pops. English subtitles are included.
The main extra is an audio commentary with film historian and editor of Video Watchdog Tim Lucas. Lucas’ commentaries remain the gold standard of film analysis and guarantee a purchase from me. The track is packed with so much lovely detail on Constantine’s career, the film’s impact on sci-fi, and Godard’s offbeat style that you will have to give it multiple listens. Also included is an introduction to the film by critic Colin McCabe and a nice interview with actress Anna Karina who fondly remembers the film. The disc rounds up with a trailer gallery for other Kino Lorber releases.
Kino’s release of ALPHAVILLE is a treasure trove for fans of Godard and the French New Wave. It’s by far one of the most enjoyable Blu-rays of 2019 and is an essential purchase.
Director- Jean-Luc Godard
Cast- Eddie Constantine, Anna Karina
Country of Origin- France
Discs- 1
Distributor- Kino Lorber
Reviewer- Tyler Miller