The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (1964)

In the vibrant tapestry of Cherbourg, France, unfolds the enchanting yet heart-rending saga of youthful love between 16-year-old Geneviève Emery and 20-year-old Guy Foucher. Their tale, woven into four captivating acts by visionary director Jacques Demy, is not just a story but a melodious fable that resonates with the pastel hues and Eastman Color vivacity of the time, making it a cinematic treasure. Geneviève, the sweet maiden who resides over an umbrella shop, is madly in love with Guy, a young mechanic. Despite their profound affection for one another, Geneviève's compassionate mother forbids their union, given Guy's impending military duty in colonial Algeria. A tearful farewell ensues, leaving in its wake a heartbroken Geneviève, a single letter from Guy, and an unexpected pregnancy. As despair sets in, enter Roland Cassard, a diamond merchant whose past intertwines with the umbrella shop. Roland, a benevolent man, offers a solution - to marry Geneviève and raise her unborn child as his own. In time, Geneviève grapples with her circumstances and consents to this arrangement. The umbrella shop is sold, and life as she knows it changes drastically. Upon Guy's return from service, he finds his hometown unrecognizable. The umbrella shop, a cornerstone of his past, is gone, and so is his beloved Geneviève, now married. Their paths cross again several years later, stirring up a whirlwind of emotions that is sure to leave audiences sniffling and teary-eyed. This is not just a film, but a radiant palette of emotions, told entirely in song. Whether you're watching it for the first time or the hundredth, The Umbrellas of Cherbourg is a symphony for the senses that will resonate long after the credits roll. Watch it with someone special, and let the magic of this timeless tale sweep you off your feet.

The Umbrellas of Cherbourg is a drama movie featuring Catherine Deneuve.

The Umbrellas of Cherbourg is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy and it's also available on Criterion Channel and Max Amazon Channel.

It is also possible to buy The Umbrellas of Cherbourg on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies and YouTube.