Christmas at Vaugirard

About This Movie

Christmas at Vaugirard is such an unusual blend of whimsy and cheekiness, right? You’ve got Chantal Goya and Serge Gainsbourg playing Marie and Joseph, and they bring a surprisingly modern twist to the Nativity story. The streets of Paris are beautifully cold and bleak, which really sets the tone—feels almost surreal how they end up in a slaughterhouse for shelter. The pacing is interesting; it meanders like a winter stroll, which adds to its charm. The practical effects are minimal yet effective, making the whole experience feel quite intimate. Goya's performance is enchanting, while Gainsbourg adds that layer of complexity you might not expect in a family film. It's definitely a film that stands out for its audacity and playful take on tradition.

This film has seen limited releases and is a bit of a rarity, which makes it quite the gem for collectors. The VHS and DVD formats are not abundant, and finding a decent copy can be a challenge. It's one of those niche titles that sparks interest due to its peculiar take on the Christmas narrative and its blend of comedy with family themes. Many collectors value it for its unique position in the 1960s French cinema landscape, especially with Goya and Gainsbourg at the helm.