Shivi's Take: Paul and Paulette Take A Bath

 Shivi's Take: Paul And Paulette Take A Bath

Paul and Paulette Take a Bath was one of the most intriguing films I watched at the Red Lorry Film Festival in Mumbai. Directed by Jethro Massey, this film blends history, mystery, and quiet longing into something truly captivating. What made the experience even more special was that Massey himself attended the screening. He took the time to meet every fan afterward, answering questions and talking about the film with such warmth and enthusiasm. The cast was equally wonderful—each performance adding depth and authenticity to the story.

For those new here, my blog Monologues with Movies is where I talk about everything that fascinates me—cinema, books, spirituality, and beyond. Shivi’s Take is a sub-section dedicated to my perspective on films and series, not just reviewing them but exploring their themes, structure, and storytelling choices. As a film student, it’s my way of breaking down what works, what stands out, and what lingers long after the credits roll.

Now, back to Paul and Paulette Take a Bath. The story follows Paul, an American photographer in Paris, who finds himself drawn to Paulette, a French woman with an obsession with historical crimes. Their shared passion leads to a fascinating dynamic—one built on curiosity, admiration, and an undercurrent of tension. While the premise sounds straightforward, the way the film unfolds is anything but. The screenplay is sharp, the dialogue is intelligent, and the pacing is so precise that every moment feels intentional.

Before watching this film, I always saw Paris as the city of love—the place of romance, poetic streets, and dreamlike aesthetics. But Paul and Paulette Take a Bath gave me a different perspective. Through its lens, I saw a city layered with history, obsession, and mystery. It made me look at Paris beyond its romanticized image and appreciate its depth—the stories carved into its architecture, the ghosts of the past lingering in its streets.

One of the most striking elements of the film was its structure. The pacing was just right—fast enough to keep us engaged but never rushed. There’s a particular scene toward the climax (no spoilers, don’t worry) that had the entire theater gasping. It was one of those moments you don’t see coming but, in hindsight, realize was set up perfectly. That’s the kind of storytelling I love—the kind that respects its audience and doesn’t rely on clichés.

Visually, the film is stunning. One of my favorite sequences was when Paul and Paulette sit near a cluster of statues as she speaks about her family. The way the statues framed them, the way the light played on their faces—it felt intimate yet grand, like history itself was watching over them. Every frame in this movie was designed with such thoughtfulness, making even the quietest moments feel significant.

One detail that stood out to me—something subtle yet significant—was how Paulette’s body hair was portrayed. It wasn’t highlighted, commented on, or used as some grand statement. It was just there, normal and unremarkable, as it should be. This might not hold much value to others, but to me, it carried a quiet kind of symbolism. It felt like an effortless rejection of unnecessary beauty standards, a reminder that femininity doesn’t have to fit into rigid expectations. In a film so deeply rooted in history and perception, this small choice felt like a powerful nod to authenticity—one that I truly appreciated.

Beyond its aesthetics, what truly stood out to me was how the film played with narrative and perception. The use of J and L cuts throughout created a seamless rhythm, making the conversations feel even more immersive. The cinematography had a way of making Paris feel both timeless and deeply personal, as if the city itself was another character in their story. It’s the kind of film that leaves you thinking about its choices long after it ends.

Watching Paul and Paulette Take a Bath was an experience—one that reminded me why I love cinema in the first place. It’s clever, beautiful, and unexpectedly powerful. And getting to hear Jethro Massey speak about it in person? Just the perfect way to end the night.

Thankyou for reading!

-Shivika Sharma