Manon of the Spring

A very satisfying small-scale epic in 2 parts. Berri seems particularly interested in exposing the close-mindedness and nastiness of a certain breed of rural hick while giving them a small amount of redemption. Things get a little goofy in the third hour (i.e., the first half of Manon) and it's far too easy to root for the heroes, but it's generally made up for by other aspects, particularly the plot construction, Depardieu's earnest but naive performance and the beautiful pastoral atmosphe

I really don't think of this as a sequel. When two or more movies are shot simultaneously and only distinguished from each other by way of editing (c.f., Kill Bill, Lord of the Rings), they're just two parts of the same movie in my book. Manon des sources has only a few minutes of exposition before it picks up more or less where Jean de Florette left off (albeit almost ten years later in terms of the story). And of course, if you enjoyed the first one you will definitely enjoy this one.

Montand is terrific in the second part too, and this film has an epilogue that those who enjoyed 'Jean de Florette' will want to see. But the story about Auteuil's infatuation with Béart did not take this to nearly the same heights as the previous film.

The second part of Berri's duology (and remake of Pagnol) evolves into a more interesting, more complex story, but also grows a little cruder, kitschier and more melodramatic (with never a downright cliche). Manon hits puberty, Ugolin starts lusting after her, but she has not forgotten or forgiven the Soubeyrans for their crime. It's still pretty good. It's still very well shot, and Montand gets more screen time in this one which is great.

Certainly it carries with it many of the strengths of its predecessor, but here there is a distinct shift in tone that hinders both its message and viewer satisfaction. Some plot developments, despite being expertly executed, betray authorial intent and where the moral ambiguity of the first film was left for the viewer to decipher, this film makes more overt nudges for audience sympathy. It's still a wonderful film and worthy successor but the fall back on conventions was a bit of a letdown.

Oh, I saw this a long time ago. It was fine I guess, don't remember disliking it, just a shrug, I think it wasn't really my thing. Don't remember it that well.

A strong ending for this two-part movie (you must see Jean de Florette first). This one, though, doesn't quite have a truly sympathetic character like Jean; while we learn more about Cesar, Manon is a bit of a cypher. Getting more insights into the townspeople was interesting, although the town hall sequence seemed rather long and discursive. Fav scene, which has one good life tip: when you're being accused of a crime, don't choose that time to propose.

Starts out slow with introducing us to the countryside, the slow ebb and flow of life, finding joy in simple things, pride in one's work. Then the story gets going and it's full of deceit and secrets. It is really a compelling watch for both of those aspects and it's never really boring even if the story moves at a slow pace. Going bilibibilibilii at goats, I could live with that.

Die visuelle und akustische (übermotivierte Zikaden) Atmosphäre wurden sehr authentisch kultiviert, wie schon im ersten Teil der Dilogie. Einiges, was in Jean de Florette passiert ist, wiederholt sich in Manon des sources mit verkehrten Rollen. Dieser Teil ist noch etwas düsterer als der Vorgänger. Die Auflösung ist an Tragik schwer zu überbieten.

Second part of Jean De Florette. Manon's Revenge: Cesar must die. The epic ends with a grand finale.

It's been a while, but I truly adored this film.

If it doesn't quite hit the heights of Part 1, MANON remains a mesmerising experience, giving Montand and Auteuil a greater chance to shine. Beart is suitably enigmatic, and the film works on its own terms and as a touching, poignant resolution to JEAN DE FLORETTE. Dips into melodrama occassionally, with a particular plot point which seems too similar to events in Part 1, but the once again beautiful cinematography, and haunting score, help put a satisfying finish on an overall wonderful epic.

It was pretty much just as good as the first part, though the first one was probably easier to enjoy. It wrapped everything up very nicely and I felt really satisfied with the entire story at the end. Also, it must be said that the actress who played Manon was rather stunning.

Really began well, and really fell apart by the end. A shame, because this is exactly what you want in concept out of a "Sequel". The film dies with Auteuil.

Same as "Jean...", this also was wonderful movie experience.

This is epic to me.

#00s(m)#, Emmanuelle.B!

Ends on a flat note. I wish I could see a movie with the first hour from each of Manon and Jean........but that wouldn't make any sense. Oh well.

You know there are something wrong in the movie, when the closest comparison you can make is with south american soap operas. Technical credits are the same, but the plot and moral stance of the film leaves a very bad taste in the mouth. Disappointing second part.

Something of an inverse of the first half, the film retains its melancholy tone. This second installment continues to play on the 'water is life' metaphor from the first, even as the tables are turned in certain ways. The final act has plenty of twists and turns, with the final image a poignant reminder of what could have been and what replaced it.

Totally absorbing sequel to Jean de Florette. I saw them both the same day, which I highly recommend. Something about Pagnol's storytelling translates beautifully to film. See his Fanny trilogy if you liked this one.