Paris Was a Woman

Paris Was a Woman, a 1996 documentary directed by Greta Schiller, presents a captivating exploration into the largely hidden world of the 1920s and 1930s Parisian Left Bank lesbian and feminist community. The film features the work and lives of some of the era’s most remarkable women. Primarily composed of artists, writers, and philosophers, these women challenged the societal norms and expectations of their time to pave unexplored paths in literature, arts, and critical thought. At the core of this narrative are remarkable figures like Gertrude Stein, Janet Flanner, Djuna Barnes, and Alice B. Toklas, with narration led by the engaging voice of actress Juliet Stevenson.

The film blends stunning archival footage with anecdotal narratives, memoirs, interviews, and scriptural analysis to delve deep into the lives of these remarkably innovative women. Some of the archival material has been beautifully restored, transporting the audience back to the cobblestone streets and golden lights of 20th-century Paris. The documentary uncovers how their bold and uncompromising creativity disrupted the art and literary worlds, laying the foundations for many of the feminist thinkers and artists to come.

Juliet Stevenson’s complex and engaging narration binds the various aspects of the film together, guiding the audience through this exploration. As she delves into the lives of the Left Bank women, Stevenson reveals a group defined not just by their creative output but by their determination to live life on their own terms, within their chosen circle of romantic and intellectual partners. The film exquisitely captures this rich camaraderie, showcasing how the exchange of ideas, debates, and discussions profoundly influenced their work and thought.

The documentary is also enriched by interviews with a diverse group of Paris residents, many of whom had encounters with these iconic women. Contributions from Maureen All and Gillian Hanna bring additional layers of interpretation and analysis. Their personal insights, along with the numerous expert interviews, shed more light on the function and impact of the Left Bank community. Understanding how this enclave operated within a wider cultural and societal context provides another dimension to these fascinating stories.

A recurring theme within Paris Was a Woman is the representation of the city itself. Paris is portrayed not merely as a backdrop but as a character that simultaneously shapes and is shaped by the Left Bank women. The film explores how Paris’ unique cultural atmospheres, cafes, bookshops, and galleries enable the emergence of avant-garde art and revolutionary thought. The scenes of Paris streets, homes, and landmarks add a charming visual element, evoking a sense of nostalgia and intimacy that underlines the significance of these women’s lives and works.

But it is not just the past that this documentary brings to life. By investigating the lasting influence of these intellectuals, Paris Was a Woman paints a vivid picture of the ties that bind present-day artists and thinkers to their provocative predecessors. It becomes clear, through the stories shared in the documentary, that the legacy of the Left Bank women continues to reverberate through time, in the arts, literature, and the feminist thought.

One of the most compelling aspects of Paris Was a Woman is its subtle exploration of the intersection between creativity, sexuality, and feminist thought. It touches upon their struggles and triumphs, the loves and friendships that sparked their imaginations, the betrayals that cut them deeply, and the spirit of defiance that propelled their work into the annals of cultural history. The film brilliantly captures the essence of these women - pioneers who dared to push the boundaries of accepted norms at a time when to do so was the very epitome of courage.

In summary, Paris Was a Woman is a captivating and informative exploration of a pivotal time in women's history. It serves as a vivid and moving tribute to a group of path-breaking women who courageously defied societal expectations to leave an indelible imprint on Paris – and the world. Both informative and inspiring, Paris Was a Woman is as much about reclaiming history from obscurity as it is about tracing the legacy of these extraordinary women.