Is Marguerite Duras in the Lions' Den Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1966)

📖 The Core Premise

With the release of Marguerite Duras in the Lions' Den (1966), audiences are invited back into the world of Documentary. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "Duras, ever the challenging interviewer, forensically questions a Parisian zookeeper regarding the happiness of the animals in his charge. Intercut with her questions is stark black-and-white footage of the animals themselves behind bars, as they pace the length of their small concrete enclosures. Duras is very much on the side of the big cats. “Are you ever careless?” she asks the zookeeper. When he replies in the negative, Duras says smilingly: “In your position I’d be tempted to be careless”."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Marguerite Duras shines in a role that demands both nuance and gravitas, elevating the material significantly. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Documentary. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Marguerite Duras in the Lions' Den worth your time? If you appreciate Documentary films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Marguerite Duras in the Lions' Den is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 18 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.