Diva (1981)

  'Diva' is a 1981 French thriller directed by Jean-Jacques Beineix. The film is about two cassette tapes. One has information about a prostitution ring, the other has a bootlegged copy of a diva's last concert. A postman called Jules switches the tapes and trouble ensues.

I was expecting a biopic of a soul singer, but instead got a moody, tense thriller. The stand-out for me is the cinematography. It feels a bit Melvillian, but at the same time feels unique. You can see the influences on modern directors, especially Nicolas Winding Refn, as this film has many similarities to 'Drive' and 'Only God Forgives'. In 'Diva' the colour pallet is mostly red, whether it is the bike, blood, jacket or lights. Red is a strong colour used to represent love, anger, warning and death, all of which are clearly present in this film.

I would say the weakest part of the film is the story, although feel free to disagree. The acting and visuals are top notch, with a fast pace 'Italian Job' style chase scene being the high point.

TO CONCLUDE
In a decade which was almost vacant for World Cinema, Diva is a great, moody and stylish film.

SCORE
77