Review of Something in the Air

I really loved this and seem to be becoming quite a fan of director Olivier Assayas. Made almost 20 years after Cold Water, this is clearly covering much the same area and is again even more autobiographic than his other films. The time is 1971, the memory of the '68 Paris disturbances are well to the fore in students minds and Assayas gives us a very believable view of the events on the outskirts. It is affectionate and infectious with marvellous and evocative music but not uncritical. The freedom to think alternative thoughts and to try new directions ensuring that everyone takes workers seriously is offset with those taking the opportunity to skinny dip or roll around in the long grass with a joint. Beginning with ferocious police violence this ends with each deciding on his own path through life and despite the ups and downs, a very enjoyable and illuminating film.