Au hasard Balthazar: Love and Destiny in French Cinema (Film Discussion)

Bresson suggests that we are all Balthazars. Despite our dreams, hopes and best plans, the world will eventually do with us whatever it does. Because we can think and reason, we believe we can figure a way out, find a solution, get the answer. But intelligence gives us the ability to comprehend our fate without the power to control it. Still, Bresson does not leave us empty-handed. He offers us the suggestion of empathy. If we will extend ourselves to sympathize with how others feel, we can find the consolation of sharing human experience, instead of the loneliness of enduring it alone. (Ebert)
------------------------------------------------------
Bresson could derive more from one pair of hands than most directors can from two hours of blood and guts. (New Yorker)

No film I have ever seen has come so close to convulsing my entire being as has Au Hasard Balthazar. (Andrew Sarris)

It is Balthazar's example of loyalty, sustenance and grace that is noble and permanent - not the transient agendas of the people around him. (Patrick Nabarro)
------------------------------------------------------
You may find the movie on Youtube, but the quality is not particularly good. The copy on google drive is better and has English subtitles. Please watch the movie in advance.
------------------------------------------------------
We all seek meaning in our lives and dread futility. Philosophy doesn't provide facile answers, but the philosophical quest to make sense of our fleeting lives is one that we all share.

This group explores answers by discussing not only philosophical writing, but also literature and film.