Jane B. by Agnès V. (1988)

In the opening whisper of JANE B. PAR AGNÈS V., Jane Birkin coyly murmurs to director Agnès Varda, "I'll gaze at you, but won't meet the camera's eye. It might be ensnaring." Renowned for her distinctive portrayals of women in CLEO FROM 5 TO 7 and VAGABOND, Varda recreates her magic, crafting an impressionistic tableau of Jane Birkin - a celebrated singer ("Je t'aime ... Moi non plus"), actress (BLOW UP), fashion trailblazer (the Hermes Birkin bag), and enduring muse to Serge Gainsbourg. Eschewing the constraining mold of traditional bio-pics, Varda ventures into an unpredictable labyrinth of enchanting and startling fantasy chapters. In these segments, Jane dons a new persona, engaging in a playful duel with Varda, as they probe the dynamics of the Muse and the Artist. This innovative approach illuminates the myriad facets of Birkin's artistic prowess. Birkin expresses her wish to be portrayed as an "ordinary yet extraordinary" figure, as transparent and anonymous as anyone else. However, her aspiration to be a "celebrated nonentity" is an unattainable paradox; her captivating aura and mesmerizing charisma defy obscurity. Varda, with her unique blend of aesthetic novelty and emotional richness, crafts an intriguing and enthralling exploration of Art, Fame, Love, Parenthood, and Staircases. Refreshed from the original 35mm camera negative under Varda's watchful eye, JANE B. PAR AGNÈS V. is ready for its maiden U.S. theatrical premiere, promising an immersive cinematic experience.

Jane B. by Agnès V. is a documentary movie featuring Jane Birkin.

Jane B. by Agnès V. is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.