Viva

Viva is an American film directed and written by Anna Biller, who also stars in the title role. It premiered in 2007, offering a unique and vibrant reimaging of the sexploitation films from the 1960's and 70's. Drawing heavily from vintage aesthetics and cultural tropes of the time, Viva explores social conventions and sexual liberation in a visually striking and sometimes humorous way.

Biller plays the character Barbi, a beautiful yet bland housewife who lives in a kitschy and picturesque suburban home with her often-absent husband, Rick, played by Chad England. The film artfully captures the essence of the 1970s through detailed set designs and vibrant, period-appropriate costumes. The world that is created in Viva is both deeply reminiscent of the past and fractionally fantastical, it's this blurred reality that makes for an intriguing viewing experience.

The plot is set in motion when Barbi, who's feeling neglected and craving something more than just her suburban life, decides to explore her sexuality and personal freedoms after being introduced to swinging by her provocative next-door neighbor, played by Bridget Brno. Changing her name to 'Viva', French for 'long live', she embarks on a journey of self-discovery.

The film subversively explores the gender roles and sexual politics of its time period, bringing to its center the narrative of a woman's self-discovery in a world dominated by men. It is a sly critique of how women were objectified and subjected to patriarchal norms, yet it does so in a humorous and abundantly vibrant way.

Featuring performances that satirically reference soap operas, fleshed out with melodramatic expressions and over-the-top performances, Viva is a unique and cinematic take on 1970s-era feminism. The dialogue is witty, satirical, and peppered with social commentary. The humor takes the embodiment of a satire rather than slapstick, adding a thought-provoking edge to the film.

Character development is a strength in Viva where a great portion of the film is dedicated to painting a comprehensive picture of each character's personality, quirks and motivations. Barbi/Viva, in particular, evolves throughout the film, shifting from a passive character to an assertive one, whilst building fascinating relationships with a cast of eccentric characters that she encounters.

Director Anna Biller takes on multiple roles in this film, which is entirely her vision. Not only is she responsible for the story and direction, but she also has credit for editing, production design, costume design, and music. This has allowed her to control every aspect of the film and add her touch to every facet of Viva, making it a unique cinematic experience.

Stylistically, Viva is a stunning film. From interiors that look plucked out of a vintage interior design magazine to costumes that are a vibrant symphony of textures and colors, every scene in the movie is meticulously designed and a visual treat. The movie also features several musical numbers that nod back to old Hollywood and Technicolor revues, adding another dimension to the overall aesthetic appeal.

In conclusion, Viva is a film that manages to capture a retro aesthetic while also tackling societal norms of the time it portrays in a way that remains relevant today. It is more than just a tribute to 1970s sexploitation cinema; it is a subversion of it, a critique of gender and societal norms and a celebration of female sexual liberation. Anna Biller's vision for the film does not only make it a feast for the eyes but also for thought, offering a humorous yet thought-provoking take on a genre typically associated with male gaze. With main performances by Biller, England and Brno, Viva manages to be both a nostalgic trip and a fresh exploration of themes that still resonate today.