La Chienne

Plot

Cashier Maurice Legrand is married to Adele, a terror. By chance he meets Lucienne, "Lulu", and makes her his mistress. He thinks he finally fallen in love for real, but Lulu is nothing but a streetwalker in love with Dede, her pimp. She only accepts Legrand to satisfy Dede's needs of money.

Why watch

Maurice Legrand, a beleaguered cashier, finds himself ensnared in a web of desire and betrayal when he meets Lucienne, a streetwalker who captivates him. As he navigates the treacherous waters of love and loyalty, the film reveals the stark realities of urban life and the often toxic nature of relationships. Watching it feels like wandering through a dimly lit Parisian street, where every encounter is tinged with longing and regret.

Talking points

• the nature of love and desire
• the impact of socioeconomic status on relationships
• the portrayal of women in early cinema
• the moral complexities of infidelity

Cultural context

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