The Nude Set

The Nude Set, originally released in 1957 as "Cette sacrée gamine", is a French black-and-white comedy directed by Michel Boisrond, simultaneously entertaining and captivating. The film features an ensemble cast, including Philippe Nicaud as Richard, Agnes Laurent as Brigitte Durand, and Dora Doll as Loulou. These renowned actors bring the characters to life with their exceptional performances, supported by a solid and engaging script.

The movie centers around Richard (Philippe Nicaud), a talented young pianist, and Brigitte (Agnes Laurent), an ebullient, vivacious, and charismatic teenager who adds a touch of vibrancy to the story. Richard is indicative of a mature, cultured artist, portraying the essence of a man dedicated entirely to his art. On the other hand, Brigitte embodies the spirit of an innocent yet troublemaking teenager, who continually pushes against societal norms and expectations.

The story begins when Brigitte's father, a wealthy industrialist, decides to send her to a respected boarding school. However, Brigitte, a typical rebellious teenager, has other plans. She decides to escape from the school and crashes into Richard's life, turning it upside down. Richard, who is aspiring to secure a career in classical music and get recognition in an upcoming competition, finds himself entangled in a tornado of events caused by Brigitte. She adds an unexpected twist to his sedate life, concocting a series of comic misadventures.

While Brigitte is the quintessential free-spirited 'mademoiselle' of French cinema, Richard suddenly finds himself in a whirlwind of crazy circumstances, juggling between his love for music and the chaos brought on by Brigitte. This amalgamation of completely different characters makes The Nude Set a harmonious blend of comedy and drama, making it a must-watch for anyone who enjoys light-hearted fare.

In contrast to Richard, we have Brigitte's caretaker, Loulou (Dora Doll), a nightclub singer who interiors the storyline with her colourful and flirtatious nature. Known for her charisma and assertiveness, she proves to be an excellent caretaker for Brigitte, adding another layer of hilarity and charm to the story.

The narrative brilliantly illustrates the world of post-war France, with beautiful locales and cultural elements infused into the storyline. The film doesn't shy away from showcasing the extravagant lifestyle of the upper class, the chaos of city life, the booming cabaret culture, or the nuanced love for classical music. All these elements weave together to give the audience a taste of authentic French cinema. Also, it captures the freedom and optimism characteristic of cinematic Paris at the time.

Michel Boisrond, the director of The Nude Set, plays a significant role in molding the film into an entertaining piece of art. His attention to detail and wonderful sense of comedic timing ensure that each situation Brigitte creates for Richard is more outlandish and hilarious than the last. Additionally, his effective use of tight close-ups and longer shots greatly enhances the level of comedy and dramatic situations in the film.

The Nude Set successfully captures the boulevard spirit of the late 1950s through its slightly mischievous yet endearing story of a fiery teenager causing chaos in a pianist's life. The outstanding performances by the leads, the beautifully depicted French lifestyle and culture, and a script infused with a distinctive sense of humor and charm make it a memorable movie that resonates with audiences even today. Whether you're a fan of French cinema or simply love a good comedy, The Nude Set offers a thoroughly entertaining cinematic experience.