Manon of the Spring (1987)

Less a sequel than a seamless continuation of its predecessor, Jean de Florette, Manon of the Spring brings with it a more epic scope as it depicts the growth to womanhood of the daughter (Emmanuelle Béart) of the doomed farmer of the first film. As she discovers the truth of what happened to her father as a result of the scheming of their neighbor (Yves Montand), who took the land for himself, she vows revenge, realizing that the neighbor's deeds have irrevocably shaped the course of her life. Her moves toward avenging her father's demise provide an ironic twist to this harsh and thought-provoking saga, and French director Claude Berri perfectly illustrates the lasting consequences of deceit, greed, and revenge. Manon of the Spring is a very special foreign film choice, destined to be revered for years to come. --Robert Lane Amazon.com

beautiful film

The actors are superbe and they imitate the accent of the region to enhance its authenticity. The visual and musical background help catapault Marcel Pagnol's written work into one of the best film series (Jean de Florette/Manon des Sources) of French cinema. Whether one is a fan of foriegn films or not, these films are fantastic and the musical scores are beautiful. Parts of the movie's score are based on a Vivaldi piece. The rest is also magical. The films are tragic but at the same time, anyone can appreciate their beauty and quality. July 19, 2007

Manon of the Spring

In this marvelous sequel to "Jean de Florette," director Claude Berri builds on his previous feature with its well-observed portrayal of Provençal village life. Infusing his tale with a Greek sense of tragedy, "Manon" tackles themes of desire, fate, and justice. Boasting spectacular performances by Auteuil, Montand, and the bewitching young Beart, "Manon" is a perfect choice for a rainy day, but be sure to watch predecessor "Jean" first. July 9, 2007

Two of my favorite movies

Jean De Florette and its sequel Manon of the Spring deserve all of the accolades and heart-felt praises you read here and elsewhere. I loved them as a 17-year old after stumbling across a special broadcast on PBS, and I love them today as a 29-year old recapturing the magic on DVD.

It doesn't get any better than this, folks. These films are simply bursting at the seams with poignant lessons on humanity. One which I admire the most is the tax collector-turned farmer's (Gerard Depardieu) single-minded perseverance to realize his dream. One might argue that he selfishly ignored the well being of his wife and child in pursuing his dream. But I contend that he would not have chosen this path had he thought for one second that his family did not share the same passion. In fact, we observe nothing but unwavering love and support from his wife and child.

For you travel lovers out there, is there a better way to immerse yourself in life in a quaint French village without leaving the comfort of your living room? This is one of the reasons I love well-made foreign films. They transport you ever so eloquently to another land and time.

Watch these films. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do. February 10, 2007

Please re-release the DVD already!

Needless to say, I love this movie (and Jean de Florette.) I would just like to say that if anyone has bought the rights to it (Criterion?), kindly release it already, since these movies have been out of print for years now. Available used from $90. Get outta here. August 15, 2006

Awkward, disappointing ending

I was shocked to see that at the end of the movie this freedom-loving woman is pregnant, dressed in a decent ladylike outfit, in a church. Is that the fate of all wild shepherdesses? What a disappointing ending. I was hoping that Manon would remain free for a few more years instead of plunging into traditional domesticity. That ending undermines the whole movie. January 13, 2006

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