Les biches (“Bad Girls”)
Directed by Claude Chabrol
Written by Paul Gegauff and Claude Chabrol
1968/France
IMDb link
First viewing/Criterion Channel
Why: She lends me things. Does that surprise you?
Paul Thomas: Nothing surprises me in this house. Nothing.
1968 was a ground-breaking year. Here Claude Chabrol gives us a jet-black comedy/drama featuring a bisexual love triangle.
Frederique (Stephane Audran) is a striking, wealthy young woman who is used to getting her way. She picks up a beautiful, inexperienced artist she names “Why” on the street. Before long they are lovers and Why is living Frederique’s house along with two fey male homosexual roommates. One evening, handsome architect Paul Thomas (Jean-Louis Trintignant) comes to a card party. He makes eyes at Why and takes her back to his place.
Soon Frederique comes under his spell. This is not looking like it will end well.
I enjoy Chabrol’s mordant wit and misanthropy. This was surprisingly bold for its time. The actors all acquitted themselves admirably. I can recommend the film for someone looking for something a little different.
