The French Film Renoir is a Work of Art

"Renoir," is set on the French Riviera in the summer of 1915.  The splendor of the setting and Renoir's painting belie the darkness of WWI.  Renoir said "I refuse to paint the world black.  There is enough disagreeable things in life; poverty, despair, death."  The movie begins as a beautiful young woman, Andree, interviews to be Renoir's next (and final) model.  In 1915, Renoir is in frail health and barely able to utilize his hands.  Andree is youthful, vibrant and a free spirit.  Jean, Renoir's son, returns to his father's home shortly thereafter.  He is on leave from the army to recuperate from his severe wounds.   Andree & Jean soon become lovers.  She tells him, "You've got to squeeze everything life has to offer."  The movie is seen through the eyes of all three: Renoir, Jean & Andree.  The movie is sumptuous with scenery, lighting and the sensualities of the flesh.  "It is all about the flesh, the texture of a young girl's skin."  Renoir is only interested in capturing "the living and breathing."  The movie ends with Jean & his father are saying farewell to each other as Jean is returning to the front.  It is this melancholy impact we feel their love for each other and grasp the tenuous beauty of life.  "Pain passes, beauty remains."  The film is a work of unforgettable art.        `