The Valley (Obscured by Clouds)
A film by Barbet Schroeder
When Viviane (Bulle Ogier), a chic young diplomat’s wife, meets an intriguing adventurer (Michael Gothard) and his hippy friends in the wilds of Papua New Guinea, different worlds collide. The group, led by enigmatic visionary Gaetan (Jean-Pierre Kalfon), convince Viviane to join their expedition in search of a mysterious uncharted valley – its location obscured by clouds. Along for free love and exotic feathers Viviane gradually discovers that she too is looking for her lost Eden, but can it be found in the savage jungle?
The Valley – Barbet Schroeder’s striking second feature – explores the limits of experience and freedom, journeying into the Great Unknown accompanied by Pink Floyd’s especially composed soundtrack, later released as the album Obscured By Clouds. Aided by Nester Almendros’ striking photography, and the tribespeople of the Mapuga – who allowed Westerners to participate in and film their rites for the first time – the film is an authentic tribute to the liberating spirit of adventure.
Format
Special features
- Original un-restored ending (5 min, DVD only).
- Le Cochon aux Patates Douces (Barbet Schroeder, 1971, 8 min).
- Maquillages (Barbet Schroeder, 1971, 12 min).
- Sing-Sing (Barbet Schroeder, 1971, 5 min).
- Theatrical trailers for The Valley, More (1969) and Maitresse (1974).
- Fully illustrated booklet with rare on-set photographs, newly commissioned essays and director interview.
Credits
Year
1972
Country
France
Product information
Certificate
15
Colour
Colour
Languages
French
Subtitles
English
DVD region
- 2 Europe (except Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus), Middle East, Egypt, Japan, South Africa, Swaziland, Lesotho, Greenland, French Overseas departments and territories
Blu-ray region
- B - Includes most European and Middle-Eastern countries, all of Africa, Australia and New Zealand
Catalogue number
BFIB1039