The Criterion Corner Episode 28 : PARIS, TEXAS (1984)

Paris, Texas is a 1984 road movie directed by Wim Wenders and co-written by L. M. Kit Carson and Sam Shepard. It stars Harry Dean Stanton, Dean Stockwell, Nastassja Kinski, Aurore Clément and Hunter Carson. In the film, disheveled recluse Travis Henderson (Stanton) reunites with his brother Walt (Stockwell) and son Hunter (Carson); Travis and Hunter then embark on a trip through the American Southwest to track down Travis' missing wife, Jane (Kinski).
#paristexas #wimwenders #harrdydeanstanton #deanstockwell #criterion #criterioncollection #criterionfilms

[@SamElliottsStache]

This movie is what I call a palatable art film. It's the kind of movie that ordinary moviegoers probably seldom watch but yet it has universal appeal. It's supreme craftsmanship. A slow burner yet you didn't realize that nearly three hours have passed. The spectacular shots reminded me of a photo exhibit evolving into the world of cinema in real-time. The freaking vibrant colors were characters themselves. My only criticism is, unsurprisingly, the ending and wanted to see more exposition for Travis and Jane. But I guess that's what makes this film "artsy", the ambiguity and unknown. It's leaves us to interpret it for ourselves; prompts to make our own missing pieces and put them together. I surmised that Travis and Jane were bohemians given their behavior and chosen life paths. But the biggest plot hole (unless I need to re-watch it) was the vacant in the titular town. I guess Travis wanted to make amends by purchasing that lot but realized his actions were beyond repair and removed himself from the situation. He was truly a broken man. I can only imagine what he did next after heading out of Houston. I hope he is alright.

[@natesfilmreviews]

Really loved reading this and agree with your points. Thank you for commenting!