Screen Test [ST249]: Ondine

About This Movie

Ondine (1966) is this curious piece that lingers in an almost dreamlike state. The protagonist, sporting dark glasses, gives off an air of detachment—like he’s half-awake, half-drifting through a haze of thought. The pacing is slow, almost methodical, which might not be to everyone's taste, but it does create a unique atmosphere. There’s this fascinating in-camera edit near the end that feels accidental yet adds to the film's character. It's a bit experimental in execution, leaving you wondering about the intentions behind it all. You really get the sense of an artist playing with the medium, even if we don’t know who they are. It certainly stands out in the landscape of its time.

This film hasn’t seen a wide release over the years, making it a bit of a hidden gem among collectors. Its scarcity can ignite interest among those who appreciate obscure cinema. The format history is somewhat murky, with few known copies in circulation, which only adds to its allure. Those interested in experimental films will find Ondine to be an intriguing piece worth exploring.