A Retrospective on Brigitte Bardot's Cinema
Brigitte Bardot's legacy transcends the screen; she was a phenomenon, an embodiment of the era's spirit. While her later years were overshadowed by controversial views and animal rights activism, her cinematic brilliance deserves recognition. As we remember her life, let's explore five of her seminal films available for streaming that demonstrate her exceptional talent.
1. 'And God Created Woman' (1956)
In this seminal film directed by Roger Vadim, Bardot burst onto the screen as a young woman who perfectly encapsulates the newly liberated feminine spirit of the time. It's easy to pigeonhole her as merely a sex symbol, but Bardot showcases a complex character filled with desires and independence. The film's erotic tension and stunning visuals propelled her into international stardom, marking her as a cultural icon who owned her sensuality.
2. 'Une Parisienne' (1957)
Stream it on the Criterion Channel.
This delightful comedy marks Bardot's reunion with director Michel Boisrond and is a delightful romp through Parisian love and intrigue. With sharp dialogue and quick pacing, Bardot shines as Brigitte, a character as multifaceted as the city itself. The film critiques societal norms through its playful narrative while allowing Bardot to blend seamlessly between whimsy and charm.
3. 'Contempt' (1963)
A collaboration with the New Wave director Jean-Luc Godard, this film is a deep dive into the art of cinema itself. Bardot plays a wife negotiating the complexities of her identity, marriage, and the film industry. Here, her physical beauty is juxtaposed with existential angst, making it a poignant commentary on the nature of creativity and female representation in film.
4. 'The Vixen' (1969)
Rent or buy it on Prime Video.
While skirting the edges of exploitation cinema, this film features Bardot at the height of her allure. As Clara, she navigates the whims of a blocked novelist, all the while maintaining her magnetic charm. The vibrant aesthetics of the film are perfectly complemented by Bardot's electric performance, capturing the burgeoning spirit of the sexual revolution.
5. 'Don Juan, or If Don Juan Were a Woman' (1973)
Stream it on the Criterion Channel.
This late-career film is a bold statement from Bardot, who reclaims her sexuality in her 30s. As Jeanne, she explores themes of desire and female autonomy, transcending the traditional bounds placed upon her character by societal expectations. With a blend of humor and depth, the film offers a nuanced portrait of her character, resonating with contemporary explorations of female desire.
Reflecting on Bardot's Impact
Brigitte Bardot's career spanned over two decades and left an indelible mark on cinema. Though her opinions in her later life were divisive, her contribution to film and the cultural discussions surrounding femininity remain relevant. Coming back to her films is like revisiting a wellspring of artistic expression that paved the way for generations of women in cinema.
As we navigate an ever-evolving landscape of entertainment, Bardot's films remind us of the transformative power of strong female leads and the art of storytelling in redefining cultural narratives.
"Brigitte Bardot, a beacon of liberation, whose films continue to inspire."
Celebrate her extraordinary legacy by revisiting these captivating films that still resonate today.
Source reference: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/28/movies/brigitte-bardot-movies-to-stream.html
