Director Jean Renoir’s entrancing first color feature—shot entirely on location in India—is a visual tour de force. Based on the novel by Rumer Godden, the film eloquently contrasts the growing pains of three young women with the immutability of the Bengal river around which their daily lives unfold. Enriched by Renoir’s subtle understanding and appreciation for India and its people, The River gracefully explores the fragile connections between transitory emotions and everlasting creation.
Nominated for 2 BAFTA Film Awards. Another 2 wins & 2 nominations.
Top Critics Reviews
fresh:
Renoir fashioned what might be his sweetest movie about family and one of the post-war years' most serene cinematic statements.
– Michael Atkinson,
Village Voice,
2 Aug 2005
fresh:
As beautiful as it is moving.
– Wally Hammond,
Time Out,
9 Feb 2006
fresh:
Withal, the illustrations of the country are beautiful beyond words-the serenity of the river, the power of boatmen sweeping its stream, the bazaars full of color and movement, [and] the dazzling brilliance of festivals.
– Bosley Crowther,
New York Times,
25 Mar 2006
fresh:
Jean Renoir's 1951 masterpiece, his first film in color.