Jacques Rivette

Date of Birth: March 1, 1928

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: January 29, 2016

Biography

Jacques Rivette was a French film director, screenwriter, and critic, notable for his significant contributions to French New Wave cinema. Born on March 1, 1928, in Rouen, France, Rivette moved to Paris in 1949, where he began his career as a film critic for the influential magazine Cahiers du Cinéma. Rivette’s early work as a critic set the stage for his transition to directing, and he became known for his innovative and often experimental approach to filmmaking. His films are characterized by their length, improvisational style, and complex narratives. Among his most acclaimed works are “Paris nous appartient” (1961), “Céline and Julie Go Boating” (1974), and the monumental 13-hour film “Out 1” (1971). Rivette’s unique vision and dedication to the art of cinema have left an indelible mark on the film industry.

5 Interesting Facts about Jacques Rivette

1. Jacques Rivette was a key figure in the French New Wave, alongside directors like Jean-Luc Godard, François Truffaut, and Éric Rohmer.

2. His film “Out 1” (1971) is one of the longest narrative films ever made, with a runtime of approximately 13 hours.

3. Rivette was known for his collaborative approach to filmmaking, often involving actors and crew in the creative process.

4. He began his career as a film critic at Cahiers du Cinéma, where he worked alongside other future New Wave directors.

5. Despite his significant influence, Rivette remained relatively obscure compared to his contemporaries, and many of his films were not widely distributed.