Analysis of Umbrellas of Cherbourg

In 1964 the film Umbrellas of Cherbourg, directed by Jacques Demy was released. The unconventional musical can also be considered a melodrama.  The film’s themes being raised are theoretical, aesthetic, political, and historical.

Theoretically this film is an experiment and it does not follow the normal structure of a musical or drama. A typical musical would have had an explosive final number where the couple would finally reunite and live happily ever after. The film ends along the lines of a drama, the two people going their separate ways.

The films aesthetic, is clear through the mise en scene and camera work. As for the musical portrayal, the use of bright colors, long takes, and singing are artistically expressed. However the story and tone of the film follows a dramatic aesthetic, there are close ups, and serious plot lines. At one point the actors look directly at the camera which reminds us that this is indeed a film we are watching, enforcing the role of spectatorship.

Politically the film shows the struggles of single women and the pressure to conform as well as social structures for both genders.

Madame Emery is a single mother and small business owner. When her young daughter Genevieve becomes pregnant, the best solution is to marry her. Madame Emery at one point says that she’s worried for Genevieve, that she’s become, “sad, secretive, and independent.” and that they must hide the pregnancy from others. It’s a sign of society enforcing it morale’s on what is presentable for a young lady. Wealth also plays a prominent role in this film, the debt from the umbrella boutique is the cause of the initial relationship with Roland. Wealth is the difference between Guy and Roland, it is also one of the main reasons why Genevieve marries Roland.  

Historically the film takes place between 1957 and 1963 coinciding with the Algerian War which took place between 1954 and 1962. Using the Algerian War as part of a story has become common among French New Wave films. Also a reflection of the times and Hollywood fascination, Guy has a picture of Marilyn Monroe in his locker. An interesting fact is that during the time this film was actually made she had already died.

For me, the score, "I Will Wait for You." by Michel LeGrand was very powerful and held a prominent role in the film. I also enjoyed the fact that Jacques Demy used Marc Michl’s character Roland from Lola. Umbrellas of Cherbourg is a heartfelt love story with a fitting ending.