Quiet Days in Clichy was released in 1970
Quiet Days in Clichy is a film directed by Jens Jørgen Thorsen, based on the semi-autobiographical novel by Henry Miller. The film chronicles the bohemian lifestyle of the 1930s in Paris, France. The movie, much like the novel is explicit and hedonistic. In fact the novel, published in 1956 was banned in the US and several other countries. “Quiet Days in Clichy” captures the essence of the bohemian lifestyle with raw honesty and a distinct European sensibility. Jens Jørgen Thorsen’s direction stays true to Henry Miller’s unapologetic exploration of sexual freedom and existential angst.
Joey (Paul Valjean), an aspiring writer, and Carl (Wayne Rodda), his Danish photographer friend, revel in the carefree and permissive atmosphere of Paris. The film’s episodic structure, characterized by a series of vignettes, mirrors the fragmented and transient nature of Joey and Carl’s lives. Joey is both charismatic and introspective, embodying the conflicted artist torn between hedonism and the pursuit of literary greatness. Carl is somewhat of an antagonist to Joey, his carefree and impulsive nature is completely unhindered, highlighting the contrast between the two friends’ approaches to life.
Their days are marked by aimless wanderings, literary discussions, and indulgence in the city’s vibrant nightlife. The film delves into their interactions with various women, exploring themes of love, lust, and the complexities of human relationships. While their lives appear to be a continuous cycle of pleasure and debauchery, underlying these experiences is a profound search for meaning and authenticity.
One of the film’s strengths is its portrayal of Paris as a character in itself. The cinematography vividly captures the city’s charm and decadence, from the bustling streets to the intimate cafes. The black-and-white aesthetic enhances the nostalgic and timeless quality of the narrative, immersing viewers in the ambiance of 1930s Paris.
Paris in the 1930s was a hub for expatriate artists and writers, providing a fertile ground for creative exploration and intellectual exchange. The city’s liberal atmosphere attracted figures like Miller, Ernest Hemingway, and F. Scott Fitzgerald, who found inspiration and camaraderie in its vibrant cultural scene. While it may not appeal to all tastes, it remains a significant cultural artifact, capturing the spirit of an era marked by artistic rebellion and sexual liberation.
