This was the movie which launched Brigitte Bardot as the sex symbol of the fifties and sixties in the the role of the teenager Juliette. And this is really a movie about a woman. She fills the screen during the whole projection with her gorgeous and generous anatomy and also with her way of smiling, talking, laughing, walking and dancing in a mixture of flesh, fire and beauty displaying moreover her personality and her fears, desires and anguish. However she is no "femme fatale" and only a tender teenager who cannot be blamed for having been born so pretty, charming and physically well shaped and who sometimes appears almost like a defenceless child. The story involves not the classical triangle but a quadrilateral instead whose vertices are besides Juliette herself, her young husband, his brother and the rich middle aged businessman who covets her since the beginning. The end of the story is somewhat conventional but acceptable anyway. This movie was received like a bomb in the movie world shaking some moral canons and shocking a lot people although by today's patterns it can be judged as rather innocent. Anyway the story is simple,original and well conceived and the actors play well which makes it a good movie after all.
55 Reviews
Ooh La La!!!
ferbs543 December 2007
Every great actress has her breakthrough role--the one that really puts her over with the public--and for 22-year-old Brigitte Bardot, that role came in 1956's "...And God Created Woman." In this film she plays an 18-year-old named Juliette, who marries younger brother Michel (Jean-Louis Trintignant) to spite older brother Antoine, all the while being pursued by the wealthy, middle-aged Carradine (Curt Jurgens). It is easy to see why BB proved so popular in this film. She is indeed very beautiful, and writer/director/husband Roger Vadim shows her off to good effect. OK, to address the thought uppermost in the minds of my fellow all-American red-blooded pigdogs, we get to see BB in all manner of formfitting outfits (sorry, no nude scenes or swimwear), seducing Antoine whilst laying in the surf, teasing behind sheets and under blankets, and, most impressively, doing a frenzied mambo. I dwell on BB's physique because, really, it is what the film is all about. Personalitywise and characterwise, Juliette is a fairly tiresome, repugnant and conscienceless creature. But physically...ooh la la! No wonder Carradine says that she was born to destroy men! The film also boasts location filming in San Tropez, a town that here looks nice and quaint, if surprisingly run-down. The DVD itself is mighty fine, with an impressive wide-screen image, crisp color and adequate subtitling. Men, pair this movie one night with the 1935 Marlene Dietrich vehicle "The Devil Is A Woman" and you just might give up on females for good!
Extremely Sexy and Ahead of Time
claudio_carvalho12 January 2007
In St. Tropez, the orphan Juliete Hardy (Brigitte Bardot) is an eighteen years old woman sexually active and ahead of time, strongly desired by the wealthy middle age man Eric Carradine (Curd Jurgens). She has a crush on Antoine Tardieu (Christian Marquand), the older son that works in Toulon of a poor family that owns a modest shipyard, but he just want to have one nightstand with her. When Juliete's stepparents decide to send her back to the orphanage because of her bad reputation in the town, Antoine's brother Michel Tardieu (Jean-Louis Trintignant) proposes to marry her and she accepts, and she begins to love him. But when the Tardieu family decides to sell the shipyard to Eric and Antoine returns to St. Tropez, her lust for him blossoms again and becomes an announced tragedy.
This is the first time that I watch "Et Dieu... Créa la Femme" and I found it a surprisingly good movie. The story is extremely sexy and ahead of time, and works mainly because of the extremely beautiful and sensual Brigitte Bardot. Her sensuality and eroticism is impressive even in 2007, and I confess that I felt in love for her. The IMDb Tagline "...but the devil invented Brigitte Bardot!" is amazing, certainly one of the best I have ever read in this outstanding site. My vote is seven.
Title (Brazil): " E Deus Criou a Mulher" (" And God Created the Woman")
This is the first time that I watch "Et Dieu... Créa la Femme" and I found it a surprisingly good movie. The story is extremely sexy and ahead of time, and works mainly because of the extremely beautiful and sensual Brigitte Bardot. Her sensuality and eroticism is impressive even in 2007, and I confess that I felt in love for her. The IMDb Tagline "...but the devil invented Brigitte Bardot!" is amazing, certainly one of the best I have ever read in this outstanding site. My vote is seven.
Title (Brazil): " E Deus Criou a Mulher" (" And God Created the Woman")
Bardot's star making vehicle
rosscinema26 April 2004
Warning: Spoilers
Even though she had appeared in a number of other films this was the one that made her one of the greatest sex symbols in cinema and her life would be forever changed but the flip side of the coin is that film viewers would be changed forever also! Story takes place in St. Tropez, France where an 18 year old girl named Juliette Hardy (Brigitte Bardot) is making a bad name for herself cavorting with several of the male inhabitants in her area. She is told that she is going to be sent back to the orphanage but Juliette has an older admirer named Eric Carradine (Curd Jurgens) who is a rich developer and he wants to buy a local shipyard to build a casino. He convinces Michel Tardieu (Jean-Louis Trintignant) to get Juliette to marry him even though she is very much in love with his brother Antoine (Christian Marquand).
*****SPOILER ALERT*****
Michel and Juliette get married and she does learn to love him as he does but she still can't help but to flirt with Antoine and this puts friction between them. Finally one day Antoine and Juliette are alone and they make love and when word spreads everyone tries to convince Michel to get her to leave but he doesn't want her to go. Juliette has found someone that is willing to put up with her wild nature despite the fact that even she thinks it's better to leave.
This film was directed by Roger Vadim who was married to Bardot at the time and even with the story being simple he knew exactly how to showcase his wife as a sex object since this was a side of her that he was familiar with. This is not a great thought provoking film or story but it's the perfect vehicle for Bardot to star in. There is no film without her and if you look at the type of shots used you'll notice the lack of close-ups as the camera seems positioned at a good distance away from a voyeurs point of view. The performances by the male actors seem a bit stiff but a veteran like Jurgens comes out the best and an actor with his talent can actually get away with lines like "That girl is made to destroy men". But I do disagree with critics that say Bardot just prances about like a brat and the scene towards the end of the film after she has just cheated on her husband shows her character at real odds with herself but lacks the maturity and self esteem to do anything about it. Vadim captures the colors of St. Tropez beautifully and this is a very colorful film to view. Not only do the colors of the area appear brightly but the blushing fleshtones of Bardot are equally showcased. The opening shot of the film shows a nude Bardot sunbathing and it helps set the mood which is carried through until the very end. While Vadim's marriage to Bardot was dwindling down this film started her on her journey as one of the most famous stars in cinema.
*****SPOILER ALERT*****
Michel and Juliette get married and she does learn to love him as he does but she still can't help but to flirt with Antoine and this puts friction between them. Finally one day Antoine and Juliette are alone and they make love and when word spreads everyone tries to convince Michel to get her to leave but he doesn't want her to go. Juliette has found someone that is willing to put up with her wild nature despite the fact that even she thinks it's better to leave.
This film was directed by Roger Vadim who was married to Bardot at the time and even with the story being simple he knew exactly how to showcase his wife as a sex object since this was a side of her that he was familiar with. This is not a great thought provoking film or story but it's the perfect vehicle for Bardot to star in. There is no film without her and if you look at the type of shots used you'll notice the lack of close-ups as the camera seems positioned at a good distance away from a voyeurs point of view. The performances by the male actors seem a bit stiff but a veteran like Jurgens comes out the best and an actor with his talent can actually get away with lines like "That girl is made to destroy men". But I do disagree with critics that say Bardot just prances about like a brat and the scene towards the end of the film after she has just cheated on her husband shows her character at real odds with herself but lacks the maturity and self esteem to do anything about it. Vadim captures the colors of St. Tropez beautifully and this is a very colorful film to view. Not only do the colors of the area appear brightly but the blushing fleshtones of Bardot are equally showcased. The opening shot of the film shows a nude Bardot sunbathing and it helps set the mood which is carried through until the very end. While Vadim's marriage to Bardot was dwindling down this film started her on her journey as one of the most famous stars in cinema.
BB at her Sauciest in Vadime's Best Film!
shepardjessica1 September 2004
This groundbreaking Vadim film made Ms. Bardot the hottest sex symbol on the planet back in 1956. Vadim was never much of a director, but he had great taste in women (Bardot, Deneuve, J. Fonda). Brigitte Bardot is a knockout as a spoiled and selfish 20 y/o who doesn't seem to know what she wants, but all the men want HER! No one walks down a street like Ms. Bardot. Beautiful location and good performances all around.
It's too bad the dubbed version has a terrible voice used for Brigitte, but her physical presence carries it anyway. She knows how to move and hold your attention. Just an incredibly vibrant creature of the 50's. She has undervalued as an actress and no one was sexier or more sure of herself (at least ON screen). Best performance = Bardot. A 7 out of 10.
It's too bad the dubbed version has a terrible voice used for Brigitte, but her physical presence carries it anyway. She knows how to move and hold your attention. Just an incredibly vibrant creature of the 50's. She has undervalued as an actress and no one was sexier or more sure of herself (at least ON screen). Best performance = Bardot. A 7 out of 10.
Bardot launched
wrvisser-leusden-nl29 August 2003
Pfff... In all her 48 movies Brigitte Bardot never catches public imagination more thouroughly and efficiently than she does in 'et Dieu créa la femme'. Her performance in this movie really makes the sparks fly off your screen. Make sure you see the new, cleaned up version, by the way. You'll better appreciate its fine use of colors.
By this statement we have captured the essence of 'Dieu'. There really is nothing more positive to say about this movie. But it is enough. More than enough. Surely no one could have played the role of Juliette better than Brigitte did. By wearing her long, blond hair loose, Brigitte suggest sexual availability. Paradise on earth is just around the corner, she tells us. And today Brigitte's message sounds as fresh and promising as in 1956. That's why 'et Dieu créa la femme' is immortal.
By this statement we have captured the essence of 'Dieu'. There really is nothing more positive to say about this movie. But it is enough. More than enough. Surely no one could have played the role of Juliette better than Brigitte did. By wearing her long, blond hair loose, Brigitte suggest sexual availability. Paradise on earth is just around the corner, she tells us. And today Brigitte's message sounds as fresh and promising as in 1956. That's why 'et Dieu créa la femme' is immortal.
Vavoom! Brigitte Bardot Goes Bra-Less!
strong-122-47888515 September 2016
Fave movie-quote - "I didn't know that love was a disease."
.... And god created woman???.... Well, yes.... If you consider director Roger Vadim as being "god" and actress Brigitte Bardot as being the "woman" - Then god (Vadim) certainly did create this woman (who happened to be his real-life wife at the time).... Yeah. And he sure put her together very nicely. Indeed.... Mmm-Mmm.
Anyway - (Keeping in mind that this off-kilter Comedy/Romance/Drama was produced in 1956) - For all of its numerous flaws and faults - It certainly turned out to be more entertaining than I had expected it to be.
And, I will enthusiastically admit that - Without its main attraction (the sultry, sexy, sweet-as-honey, Brigitte Bardot, who was 22 at the time) - This adult-oriented, foreign film would have amounted to nothing. I mean, at certain moments in the story Bardot really did shine amongst all the rubble.
Filmed at the St. Tropez beach area of coastal France - "And God Created Woman" was produced on a budget of $300,000. Released internationally - It grossed over $4 million in its first year, alone.
.... And god created woman???.... Well, yes.... If you consider director Roger Vadim as being "god" and actress Brigitte Bardot as being the "woman" - Then god (Vadim) certainly did create this woman (who happened to be his real-life wife at the time).... Yeah. And he sure put her together very nicely. Indeed.... Mmm-Mmm.
Anyway - (Keeping in mind that this off-kilter Comedy/Romance/Drama was produced in 1956) - For all of its numerous flaws and faults - It certainly turned out to be more entertaining than I had expected it to be.
And, I will enthusiastically admit that - Without its main attraction (the sultry, sexy, sweet-as-honey, Brigitte Bardot, who was 22 at the time) - This adult-oriented, foreign film would have amounted to nothing. I mean, at certain moments in the story Bardot really did shine amongst all the rubble.
Filmed at the St. Tropez beach area of coastal France - "And God Created Woman" was produced on a budget of $300,000. Released internationally - It grossed over $4 million in its first year, alone.
The Voice Matters
wglenn11 September 2003
Sexuality is a mysterious creature at times, determined by many different elements: the physical appearance of a person, the way their body moves, their attitude towards life, the way they express their emotions, their creativity, the subtle fragrance they give off, the way they talk, and sometimes an x-factor that can't be defined. What strikes me about Bardot's powerful sexuality is that cinema really hadn't seen anything like it before she came around. The closest example I can think of in American film might be Lauren Bacall in "To Have and Have Not," but even that misses the mark. Bardot was not only a beautiful woman but she had a fun, mischievous and freedom-loving spirit and a fiery mind lurking around behind her sometimes poorly written characters, and these things make her even more attractive. Plus, she had a great voice. Which is why I was stunned to see a trailer for _Et Dieu... créa la femme_ dubbed into English at the end of the subtitled version. The woman doing Bardot's voice sounded awful, and so much of Brigitte's sexuality was lost. Imagine Bacall telling Bogie "You know how to whistle, don't you Steve?" in a squeaky, high-pitched voice. Would she be as sexy? I don't think so. Yet people watching the dubbed version of this film are getting something similar.
As far as the film itself goes, most everything has already been said in other comments. Bardot does a great job as Juliette - who else could have done the role so well? - and Jurgens was quite good as Eric Carradine. The setting is luscious and fits perfectly with Bardot's character and the overall mood of the tale. The music is excellent, from the title sequence at the beginning through the dance scene at the end. The story can be cliched at times and there are definitely machista elements. But it's not a bad story either, with good tension created between the brothers. The fight sequences, as someone else mentioned, are laughable and poorly done. But it doesn't really matter. It's Bardot's show all the way - from her nude Cinemascope sunbathing shot that opens the film, with the witty dialog between her and Jurgens, to her erotic dance that serves as the climax of the story. Along the way we get several nice scenes that show her broader persona, including the one where she sets the bird and rabbit free in the field, and the scene in the bookstore with the woman from the orphanage.
But, for the sake of Dieu, don't see this movie dubbed.
As far as the film itself goes, most everything has already been said in other comments. Bardot does a great job as Juliette - who else could have done the role so well? - and Jurgens was quite good as Eric Carradine. The setting is luscious and fits perfectly with Bardot's character and the overall mood of the tale. The music is excellent, from the title sequence at the beginning through the dance scene at the end. The story can be cliched at times and there are definitely machista elements. But it's not a bad story either, with good tension created between the brothers. The fight sequences, as someone else mentioned, are laughable and poorly done. But it doesn't really matter. It's Bardot's show all the way - from her nude Cinemascope sunbathing shot that opens the film, with the witty dialog between her and Jurgens, to her erotic dance that serves as the climax of the story. Along the way we get several nice scenes that show her broader persona, including the one where she sets the bird and rabbit free in the field, and the scene in the bookstore with the woman from the orphanage.
But, for the sake of Dieu, don't see this movie dubbed.
This was my introduction to women
terryseagull26 November 2004
Before this movie, I had never seen a naked woman that moved. Unless you count the images in magazines waving in the breeze! Ever since then I have had a love of slim blondes with long hair, , so I guess it must have had an effect on me. Besides that, "Art Films" were rare in Australia at the time, so it was quite a revelation to me. I don't remember much of the film, but the picture of the beautiful Bridgette will always remain in my mind. It was nice to see, in later years that she became such a strong advocate for animal welfare, and has retired semi-gracefully to her villa. Thank you Bridgette for all the entertainment.
A Sensational Performance by Brigitte Bardot
Uriah4323 July 2017
A rich man by the name of "Eric Carradine" (Curd Jürgens) wants to build a casino but needs the land owned by working class man named "Antoine Tardieu" (Christian Marquand) and his family. As it so happens, both men know a young and attractive woman named "Juliete Hardy" (Brigitte Bardot) who lives life to the fullest and it's because of her wanton disregard for convention that each want her in the worst possible way. Although Juliette loves Antoine and gives serious consideration to running off with him, she accidentally overhears Antoine bragging to a friend that he plans to sleep with her that night and then cast her aside the next morning. To further complicate matters, upon returning home that evening her foster parents tell her that they have decided to return her to the orphanage within a few days because of her flirtatious conduct. So, with nowhere else to go she accepts a sudden marriage proposal from Antoine's younger brother "Michel" (Jean-Louis Trintignant) who absolutely adores her. Needless to say, this infuriates Antoine and the rest of the family who don't think very highly of her at all. Not only that but she doesn't change her conduct in the least--which only intensifies the sexual tension for all concerned. Now rather than reveal any more I will just say that this film created quite a stir when it first came out and it's not hard to imagine why as Brigitte Bardot's performance was absolutely sensational. Having said that, however, I don't think the overall drama was nearly as sharp as it could have been. Additionally, I think it is only fair to say that this film's subject matter pales in comparison to other movies of this type today and with that in mind I have rated it accordingly. Slightly above average.
Bardot is beautiful--the script sure isn't
planktonrules10 October 2005
Warning: Spoilers
AND GOD CREATED WOMAN made quite a stir when it was released in America in the 1950s. For its time, it was very sexy and shocking. Unfortunately, the film does not age well--and today is rather tedious and forgettable. My how times have changed.
This film became famous for two reasons--and they're right above Bardot's bellybutton. She plays a bit of a bimbo and this movie is extremely sensual--for that it earns some points. But the script?! Yech!! The plot is rather silly and contrived at times, but completely gives way to silliness at the end. The end is so dumb and ridiculous that it strains my brain to think how they could have created such a stupid ending. My recommendation is to watch this more for curiosity sake than because it is a good film or because you are such a French film buff you MUST see it. FYI--the sequel (made with Rebecca DeMornay) is even stupider. While the plots have SOME similarities, they are quite different.
This film became famous for two reasons--and they're right above Bardot's bellybutton. She plays a bit of a bimbo and this movie is extremely sensual--for that it earns some points. But the script?! Yech!! The plot is rather silly and contrived at times, but completely gives way to silliness at the end. The end is so dumb and ridiculous that it strains my brain to think how they could have created such a stupid ending. My recommendation is to watch this more for curiosity sake than because it is a good film or because you are such a French film buff you MUST see it. FYI--the sequel (made with Rebecca DeMornay) is even stupider. While the plots have SOME similarities, they are quite different.
Brigitte Bardot explodes
pzanardo15 April 2005
"Et Dieu... crea la femme" is Brigitte Bardot's breakout film. She explodes on the screen, overwhelming the audience (the male audience by sure). I bet that women, as well, are shocked by the thought that such a rival-bomb can exist.
The movie itself have always been underrated. It was a scandal at the epoch and we can easily see why. Actually, the erotic atmosphere created by BB in "Et Dieu... crea la femme" is amazing even for today standards (immensely superior to that of current movies, in my personal opinion). At any rate, the scandal made the movie be automatically considered bad (needless to say, people went crazy to see it). Curiously enough, a dozen of years later several ugly movies were automatically considered good by the critics because of the scandal they raised!
Now that our modern eyes no longer see the scandal, we may judge "Et Dieu... crea la femme" a nice film, made VERY special by Brigitte Bardot's presence. The stunning locations of a still tourism-free Cote d'Azur are beautifully photographed. The story is interesting and entertaining. Melodrama is systematically avoided. The script contains a good deal of typical French wit: sharp, cynical, but with a melancholic subtext. A couple of instances. The mature gentleman Eric Carradine, trying to justify Juliete's bad behavior "I am the only one to be guilty of that" and the old woman "Don't delude yourself, sir...". Again Carradine "I fell in love with a young girl and I gave money for her to marry another man. How do you call it?" and a friend "I call it wisdom".
Bardot brilliantly plays Juliete, a remarkably interesting character. Probably, more than her free and mindless attitude toward love affairs, Juliete's true personality may be described as anarchist selfishness. She doesn't give a damn for others. She just does everything she wants, not caring people's opinions, prejudices or feelings. She loves animals, though. A further point of interest is that, according to her own autobiography, BB's personality has some in common with that of Juliete's. I don't comment Brigitte's sex-appeal. Words are not enough, just look at her and enjoy. The life at the village on the sea and the various other characters are described with accuracy. Jurgens, Trintignant and the remainder of the cast work well.
The cult-scene of the movie is Juliete's Mambo dance. Here we understand what Europeans of the 1950s thought to be a torrid scene. We also see that they were right!
Seeing the movie, many are displeased that (seemingly) a dose of heavy slaps turns the wild Juliete into a devoted spouse. That looks machist ideology. Well, to begin with, to beat guilty women is just a realistic and predictable behavior in the low class environment of a village of fishermen in the 1950s. But, above all, do you think Juliete-Brigitte tamed by few hits? Come on! She accepts the slaps only because in that very moment she has thought it good to take them. But who knows the future? Believe me, Juliete is far from being tamed, and the end of the film by no means coincides with the end of the story...
In spite of possible criticism, I like "Et Dieu... crea la femme". Right or wrong, this film has a relevant place in the history of cinema.
The movie itself have always been underrated. It was a scandal at the epoch and we can easily see why. Actually, the erotic atmosphere created by BB in "Et Dieu... crea la femme" is amazing even for today standards (immensely superior to that of current movies, in my personal opinion). At any rate, the scandal made the movie be automatically considered bad (needless to say, people went crazy to see it). Curiously enough, a dozen of years later several ugly movies were automatically considered good by the critics because of the scandal they raised!
Now that our modern eyes no longer see the scandal, we may judge "Et Dieu... crea la femme" a nice film, made VERY special by Brigitte Bardot's presence. The stunning locations of a still tourism-free Cote d'Azur are beautifully photographed. The story is interesting and entertaining. Melodrama is systematically avoided. The script contains a good deal of typical French wit: sharp, cynical, but with a melancholic subtext. A couple of instances. The mature gentleman Eric Carradine, trying to justify Juliete's bad behavior "I am the only one to be guilty of that" and the old woman "Don't delude yourself, sir...". Again Carradine "I fell in love with a young girl and I gave money for her to marry another man. How do you call it?" and a friend "I call it wisdom".
Bardot brilliantly plays Juliete, a remarkably interesting character. Probably, more than her free and mindless attitude toward love affairs, Juliete's true personality may be described as anarchist selfishness. She doesn't give a damn for others. She just does everything she wants, not caring people's opinions, prejudices or feelings. She loves animals, though. A further point of interest is that, according to her own autobiography, BB's personality has some in common with that of Juliete's. I don't comment Brigitte's sex-appeal. Words are not enough, just look at her and enjoy. The life at the village on the sea and the various other characters are described with accuracy. Jurgens, Trintignant and the remainder of the cast work well.
The cult-scene of the movie is Juliete's Mambo dance. Here we understand what Europeans of the 1950s thought to be a torrid scene. We also see that they were right!
Seeing the movie, many are displeased that (seemingly) a dose of heavy slaps turns the wild Juliete into a devoted spouse. That looks machist ideology. Well, to begin with, to beat guilty women is just a realistic and predictable behavior in the low class environment of a village of fishermen in the 1950s. But, above all, do you think Juliete-Brigitte tamed by few hits? Come on! She accepts the slaps only because in that very moment she has thought it good to take them. But who knows the future? Believe me, Juliete is far from being tamed, and the end of the film by no means coincides with the end of the story...
In spite of possible criticism, I like "Et Dieu... crea la femme". Right or wrong, this film has a relevant place in the history of cinema.
And aren't we all glad He did?
shrine-215 September 2000
Pouty Brigitte Bardot in the movie that made her an international star. Is it me or does her nubile orphan Juliette bear the basic "accoutrements" of those legendary tragediennes of 19th century English literature like Tess of the D'Urbervilles or Eustacia Wye? It might explain Juliette's last name: Hardy. Except "And God Created Woman" is set in St. Tropez and is not a tragedy. Flat out, it's a middle-aged Frenchman's chic, paternalistic vision of the irrepressible nymphet. By paternalistic, I mean we know more about what the men in her life think about her than what she thinks about them or herself. Curt Jurgens' character (who, I think, stands in for director Roger Vadim) sizes her up quickly, and in the end, blows town with Christian Marquand who plays Antoine, the man she really wants. He's got her number; to him, she's the type who refuses to be tamed, who uses her obvious "gifts" to get what she wants, who's easily bored and distracted, and a slave to her whims. To Antoine, she is an incorrigible wanton; he has no faith that she'll change. But Antoine has his way with her (He figures it's what she wants, and it is), abuses her, and tries to wise up his younger brother (Jean-Louis Trintignant) who had married her. By chic, I mean Vadim always knew how to cast attractive people in his movies. Bardot isn't the only "hotty" here; Marquand matches her heat, watt for watt, and with less effort. There's a jazzy hipness to their look for which few directors besides Vadim had a talent. Still, when Juliette is rejected and runs back to her trusting husband, the movie fades from memory, and the last shot in the picture (of the street where she lives) recalls the landscapes Cezanne abstracted into modern art oblivion.
Below-average "classic".
gridoon12 October 2003
Bardot is sensual as the personification of the unattainable female...too bad they forgot to build an actual movie around her. This movie is so empty and so obviously dependent only on Bardot's "charms", displayed in a variety of revealing outfits, that it turns into the cinematic equivalent of pimping - Vadim is selling his wife to the public! And the characters can't resist making smirking sexual innuendoes - everyone who is not blind can see that Bardot is a gorgeous woman, but Vadim apparently thought that he had to beat us over the head with that fact. (*1/2)
B.B. and not only
Kirpianuscus28 February 2016
one of films who seems have a single actor. because Roger Vadim use the eroticism of young Bardot for a touching story about youth, choices and love in real inspired manner. but that option has the importance for build a large mirror of a period. the borders of an age who seems more present in our society than in "50's and that could be the key of its success today. the grace to explore the desires of a young woman looking for a strange, obscure form of happiness. Trintignan in a of role who reminds the noble characters by Dostoievsky and the Romantic idealist . Curt Junger as the lover who use his power for define his age , cruel analyzer of the others. a film who seduces. and a film who gives precise definition for an obscure state of soul.
Retrograde melodrama that understandably caused a stir
marissas751 November 2007
"And God Created Woman," the movie that proved that men would see subtitled films if Brigitte Bardot was the star, is far from being a masterpiece, but it worked as cheap entertainment in the '50s, and still does today. Bardot's charms are on full display here: pouty mouth, tiny waist, and the "feet of a queen" despite her walking around barefoot all the time.
The plot is pretty standard-issue for a tawdry little melodrama. Juliette (Bardot) is an oversexed foster child in St-Tropez, flirting with a suave millionaire (Curd Jürgens) and yearning for handsome local-boy-made-good Antoine (Christian Marquand), who rejects her. In order to avoid being sent back to the orphanage, she marries Antoine's shy younger brother Michel (Jean-Louis Trintignant), and events proceed from there without many surprises.
The sexual and racial politics of the movie are terribly retrograde: Juliette's dancing to African mambo music signifies her descent into depravity, and the movie suggests that Michel needs to learn to "control" his wayward wife. The first half of the movie makes some efforts to establish Juliette as a sympathetic character--she loves music and animals, she won't deal with people who dislike her--but by the end, she is demonized as a woman who will drive men to their doom.
Bardot is charismatic and has at least one terrific scene where she defies her husband's family, but the other actors don't do much with their roles. The lovely cinematography captures St-Tropez before it became a fashionable resort, and the oh-so-'50s jazz soundtrack is fun. Moreover, despite the plot's datedness and predictability, it's enjoyable to spend 90 minutes with an audacious melodrama, and to see why it caused such a fuss 50 years ago.
The plot is pretty standard-issue for a tawdry little melodrama. Juliette (Bardot) is an oversexed foster child in St-Tropez, flirting with a suave millionaire (Curd Jürgens) and yearning for handsome local-boy-made-good Antoine (Christian Marquand), who rejects her. In order to avoid being sent back to the orphanage, she marries Antoine's shy younger brother Michel (Jean-Louis Trintignant), and events proceed from there without many surprises.
The sexual and racial politics of the movie are terribly retrograde: Juliette's dancing to African mambo music signifies her descent into depravity, and the movie suggests that Michel needs to learn to "control" his wayward wife. The first half of the movie makes some efforts to establish Juliette as a sympathetic character--she loves music and animals, she won't deal with people who dislike her--but by the end, she is demonized as a woman who will drive men to their doom.
Bardot is charismatic and has at least one terrific scene where she defies her husband's family, but the other actors don't do much with their roles. The lovely cinematography captures St-Tropez before it became a fashionable resort, and the oh-so-'50s jazz soundtrack is fun. Moreover, despite the plot's datedness and predictability, it's enjoyable to spend 90 minutes with an audacious melodrama, and to see why it caused such a fuss 50 years ago.
Has Become a Period Piece
Hitchcoc15 August 2013
Warning: Spoilers
I had never seen his film. Back in the sixties all the guys talked about Brigitte Bardot. Of course, the chances of seeing a film like this in our local theater were about nil. It's a decent movie in that we see why she was such a cinema presence. Her pouting mouth and bohemian being would be attractive to anyone in the male population. The story is certainly one that has been told many times. She is kept out of the orphanage by marrying a man who is still a child. Her reputation precedes her and he must endure the taunts of the local men, including one on his wedding day which gets him into a fight he can't possibly win. From then on her promiscuity and attraction to high testosterone carries forward. If a man fawns on her, he can forget it. Still, the guy really loves her and that is never in doubt. As this film ends, we know that the story will continue, bumps in the road.
"She is brave enough to do what she wants when she wants."
elvircorhodzic7 January 2017
....and GOD CREATED WOMAN is a very frivolous drama, through which permeates a fresh erotic and tragic story of young people. An eighteen-year orphan girl is the object of desire of many men in a small fishing town. Her provocative behavior is scandalous for most citizens. However, the real problems arise when she marries a naive young man who is crazy about her...
It is a very interesting conflict between a frivolous dialogue and tragic story in this film. Scenery is full of "freshness" considering the sun, the sea, the heat and a naked girl, but atmosphere is gloomy and depressing. Mr. Vadim has made a film in which the protagonists are in a kind of conflict with themselves, among themselves and with nature. As a result of that appears a wild and irrational girl that breaks certain social taboos.
Brigitte Bardot as Juliette Hardy is somehow amoral girl. She is brave enough to do what she wants when she wants." I think everyone will enjoy her nakedness. Bardot moves herself in a fashion that fully accentuates her charms. However, those who have enjoyed her acting are probably rare. A young, beautiful and pretty actress has become a sex symbol.
Curd Jürgens as Éric Carradin is an old businessman and cunning fox, who is experienced enough to not put his life into the hands of one wild girl. Jean-Louis Trintignant as Michel Tardieu is Juliette's husband. He was deeply depressed and fascinated with his playful wife at the same time. Christian Marquand as Antoine Tardieus is an older brother and a real playboy in a small town. His guilt was so ironic.
This is a circus of the film, but I enjoyed the beautiful images of St. Tropez and the lovely Brigitte.
It is a very interesting conflict between a frivolous dialogue and tragic story in this film. Scenery is full of "freshness" considering the sun, the sea, the heat and a naked girl, but atmosphere is gloomy and depressing. Mr. Vadim has made a film in which the protagonists are in a kind of conflict with themselves, among themselves and with nature. As a result of that appears a wild and irrational girl that breaks certain social taboos.
Brigitte Bardot as Juliette Hardy is somehow amoral girl. She is brave enough to do what she wants when she wants." I think everyone will enjoy her nakedness. Bardot moves herself in a fashion that fully accentuates her charms. However, those who have enjoyed her acting are probably rare. A young, beautiful and pretty actress has become a sex symbol.
Curd Jürgens as Éric Carradin is an old businessman and cunning fox, who is experienced enough to not put his life into the hands of one wild girl. Jean-Louis Trintignant as Michel Tardieu is Juliette's husband. He was deeply depressed and fascinated with his playful wife at the same time. Christian Marquand as Antoine Tardieus is an older brother and a real playboy in a small town. His guilt was so ironic.
This is a circus of the film, but I enjoyed the beautiful images of St. Tropez and the lovely Brigitte.
Review of B.B. films exhibited in Chile
FerdyRSB200422 November 2004
By 1956 I was a child at primary school, and remember well that my colleagues mentioned that film. We were not permitted to go and watch the movie, but were concerned about it. B.B. was the sex symbol star by that time... to watch her was a shared aspiration by all her fans and to get it was a prowess. Unfortunately, I have never had the opportunity to watch a film starred by B.B. at a cinema room, nor by that time neither by now.
The film career of B.B. is extensive indeed, but only a very few titles were brought to Chile. "And God created Woman", "Viva Maria" (where B.B. acts as a female guerrilla leader during the Mexican Revolution) have been the only films I ever remember to be exhibited in public cinema rooms in Chile.
The film career of B.B. is extensive indeed, but only a very few titles were brought to Chile. "And God created Woman", "Viva Maria" (where B.B. acts as a female guerrilla leader during the Mexican Revolution) have been the only films I ever remember to be exhibited in public cinema rooms in Chile.
Bardot's image embodied a unique combination of perversity and innocence
Nazi_Fighter_David8 July 1999
Warning: Spoilers
The image of a nude Brigitte Bardot stretched out on her stomach, as she appeared at the very beginning of "And God Created Woman," used to create posters that sold by the thousands and helped to popularize her initials, "B.B."
The scandal she provoked launched the film and made it an unprecedented success Her image embodied a unique combination of perversity and innocence, a mix she displayed in her powerful portrayal of the fascinating character in the filma young woman, proud of her body, who ultimately rejects morality However, this opposition to conventional behavior was more a declaration of intent than of reality The film was actually a morality tale: the liaison of the heroine and her brother-in-law was severely criticized, and conjugal love triumphed over the other more sordid union in the end
The controversy of "An God Created Woman" lay not so much in the actual events, but in the female character's impudence And even if Vadim's message has become dated, it nonetheless documents a difficult period of time and the frustration that accompanied a living, breathing, sexual fantasy, an object of desire, a symbol of sexual liberty Sex was no longer voyeurism, as it was in George Lacombe's "The Light Across the Street," (La Lumière d'en face) but instead became a reality which called for one's attention
Seen in this way, it is incontestable that "B.B." and Vadim contributed to the liberation of sexual mores, almost presaging the Sexual Revolution
The scandal she provoked launched the film and made it an unprecedented success Her image embodied a unique combination of perversity and innocence, a mix she displayed in her powerful portrayal of the fascinating character in the filma young woman, proud of her body, who ultimately rejects morality However, this opposition to conventional behavior was more a declaration of intent than of reality The film was actually a morality tale: the liaison of the heroine and her brother-in-law was severely criticized, and conjugal love triumphed over the other more sordid union in the end
The controversy of "An God Created Woman" lay not so much in the actual events, but in the female character's impudence And even if Vadim's message has become dated, it nonetheless documents a difficult period of time and the frustration that accompanied a living, breathing, sexual fantasy, an object of desire, a symbol of sexual liberty Sex was no longer voyeurism, as it was in George Lacombe's "The Light Across the Street," (La Lumière d'en face) but instead became a reality which called for one's attention
Seen in this way, it is incontestable that "B.B." and Vadim contributed to the liberation of sexual mores, almost presaging the Sexual Revolution
And Roger Vadim created Brigitte Bardot!
mvanhoore30 January 2014
Warning: Spoilers
From the first scene onwards where we see Juliette (Bardot) sunbathing naked it is clear that the only reason Vadim made this movie is to make his wife an international superstar. I'll have to admit that some scenes are really iconic. I already mentioned the sunbathing, but also the scene where Juliette walks out of the sea with her dress open from her belly and of course the dance scene at the end of the movie.
Despite these memorable scenes (especially from male view) the cinematography is very average. We hardly see any interesting shots. The script is very poor with dialog and scenes not worked out very well. The most interesting aspect of the story is the band of brothers, or more specific the demolition of this band by the force of nature that is Juliette. She loves Michel but longs for Antoine who just sees her as a one-night-stand. Then there is youngest brother Christian who's character is somewhere between his older brothers but he's to young to really participate in the game. Where there's a real loyalty between the brothers at the start of the movie at the end they all stand against each other. Antoine will leave for good and Christian who adored his eldest brother is disillusioned by the behavior of Antoine. Michel is probably most damaged. His mother and brother despise him for hanging on to his marriage with Juliette and he faces a future with her that will only include more drama. Apart from the sunbathing the movie is not very interesting until Juliette has her affair with Antoine and the brothers fall apart. The scene where Juliette starts dancing in the café and Michel caught while living the life she wants to live is by far the best of the movie. Bardot is so sensual in this scene and the acting by Trintignant very intense. Nowadays the movie is quiet tame but I can imagine that it caused a stir in the mid fifties. So really enjoyable for the above mentioned scenes but no milestone in the history of cinema.
Despite these memorable scenes (especially from male view) the cinematography is very average. We hardly see any interesting shots. The script is very poor with dialog and scenes not worked out very well. The most interesting aspect of the story is the band of brothers, or more specific the demolition of this band by the force of nature that is Juliette. She loves Michel but longs for Antoine who just sees her as a one-night-stand. Then there is youngest brother Christian who's character is somewhere between his older brothers but he's to young to really participate in the game. Where there's a real loyalty between the brothers at the start of the movie at the end they all stand against each other. Antoine will leave for good and Christian who adored his eldest brother is disillusioned by the behavior of Antoine. Michel is probably most damaged. His mother and brother despise him for hanging on to his marriage with Juliette and he faces a future with her that will only include more drama. Apart from the sunbathing the movie is not very interesting until Juliette has her affair with Antoine and the brothers fall apart. The scene where Juliette starts dancing in the café and Michel caught while living the life she wants to live is by far the best of the movie. Bardot is so sensual in this scene and the acting by Trintignant very intense. Nowadays the movie is quiet tame but I can imagine that it caused a stir in the mid fifties. So really enjoyable for the above mentioned scenes but no milestone in the history of cinema.
Worst choreographed fight scenes in film history!
neal-5721 February 2003
This film is a curiousity that seems to have achieved cult status by showcasing the early Brigitte Bardot--okay, so she's easy to look at, but as a character she invites no audience identification whatsoever. Nor do the always reliable actors Christian Marquand ("Flight of the Phoenix," and director of one of THE worst movies of all time, "Candy") and Curt Jurgens, as two of the men "bewitched" by this unlikable bitch. The only sympathetic role in the whole film belongs to Jean-Louis Trintagnant, as the younger brother of the Marquand character.
And it is Trintagnant who is the unfortunate victim of the worst-choreographed fight scenes I have ever, EVER seen. Especially pathetic is the first fight with a dockyard tough: the blows and kicks are very obviously not connecting, and the sound effects are not only insufficient, they're out of synch with the onscreen action. The very worst John Wayne western from his pre-stardom period in the 3O's boasts better action sequences. Errol Flynn's legendarily awful "Cuban Rebel Girls," which resembles a home movie more than a film, has better fight scenes. In fact, I personally am but a community-theatre actor, and even I can fake giving and receiving punches better than Vadim's performers!
Two things puzzle me: Why did the people who meticulously "restored" the film for DVD not upgrade the sound effects to at least partially fix these absurd scenes? And how did Vadim's reputation ever survive this demonstration of ineptitude? Or is there some "artistic significance" associated with hilariously awful filmmaking that I am missing here?
And it is Trintagnant who is the unfortunate victim of the worst-choreographed fight scenes I have ever, EVER seen. Especially pathetic is the first fight with a dockyard tough: the blows and kicks are very obviously not connecting, and the sound effects are not only insufficient, they're out of synch with the onscreen action. The very worst John Wayne western from his pre-stardom period in the 3O's boasts better action sequences. Errol Flynn's legendarily awful "Cuban Rebel Girls," which resembles a home movie more than a film, has better fight scenes. In fact, I personally am but a community-theatre actor, and even I can fake giving and receiving punches better than Vadim's performers!
Two things puzzle me: Why did the people who meticulously "restored" the film for DVD not upgrade the sound effects to at least partially fix these absurd scenes? And how did Vadim's reputation ever survive this demonstration of ineptitude? Or is there some "artistic significance" associated with hilariously awful filmmaking that I am missing here?
And God Created Woman But What Do They Want?
RobertCartland17 January 2000
Warning: Spoilers
While any spoilers below are presented in vague generalities, one might appreciate this review more after viewing the film.
It is preciously rare to see raw human truths portrayed in a work of art -this film succeeds. Brigitte Bardot plays the young orphan Juliette trying to come to terms with the power and curse of being a beautiful woman. She wants to have fun, she wants to be loved, but few are able to see past her beautiful body and irreverent behavior. One man tries to buy her love and another uses raw male sexual appeal. Both men fail to completely win her affection primarily because of their own inability to admit how completely they love and desire her. A third, most unlikely man, wins her affection by treating her with kindness and love, rescuing her when the world turn against her and defending her honor even against his own mother. When she betrays him, he responds physically, expressing outrage, and than offers forgiveness. It is at the moment of his physical expression of outrage that he wins her love completely. This film expresses the profundity of feminine attractiveness and provides a glimpse at the answer to the Freudian question, `what do women want?'. Expressing the answer in words risks oversimplification; however, one might say that women want the freedom to express their femininity and sexuality within the confines of a loving, supportive and respectful relationship.
It is preciously rare to see raw human truths portrayed in a work of art -this film succeeds. Brigitte Bardot plays the young orphan Juliette trying to come to terms with the power and curse of being a beautiful woman. She wants to have fun, she wants to be loved, but few are able to see past her beautiful body and irreverent behavior. One man tries to buy her love and another uses raw male sexual appeal. Both men fail to completely win her affection primarily because of their own inability to admit how completely they love and desire her. A third, most unlikely man, wins her affection by treating her with kindness and love, rescuing her when the world turn against her and defending her honor even against his own mother. When she betrays him, he responds physically, expressing outrage, and than offers forgiveness. It is at the moment of his physical expression of outrage that he wins her love completely. This film expresses the profundity of feminine attractiveness and provides a glimpse at the answer to the Freudian question, `what do women want?'. Expressing the answer in words risks oversimplification; however, one might say that women want the freedom to express their femininity and sexuality within the confines of a loving, supportive and respectful relationship.
The Queen of Smoking Hot; Brigette Bardot - And God Created Women
arthur_tafero13 January 2022
If you are a man, and this film does not raise your temperature a degree or two, there is something seriously wrong with you. Brigette Bardot, without doing a nude scene (remember, this is the mid 1950s), gets more mileage from her screen time than any ten naked women having sex on the screen in today's highly permissive society. THIS is what sexy is; not blatant nudity and sexual activity. I've already forgotten the plot of the film; men would come to see this film without a plot. The rating is for Bardot, and the style in which she is presented as a sex object. The review would be two or three stars less from most women critics, I have no doubt, but not from this one.
PS. The remake with the hot Rebecca DeMornay made several years later is pretty good as well; but not as good as the original.
PS. The remake with the hot Rebecca DeMornay made several years later is pretty good as well; but not as good as the original.
Weak
zetes20 June 2002
Painfully dull Brigette Bardot vehicle, the one that made her world famous. Bardot plays a lusty young woman who must marry before she is sent back to the orphanage ([smile]). The man with whom she is actually in love is away and apparently never coming back, so she settles for his younger brother (Jean-Louis Trintignant, very lame in this early role). When the brother comes back, there's predictable trouble. The only good part of the film happens after Bardot runs away, expecting that her husband will want her to go. She finds a band practicing Carribean music, and she dances erotically to it. This was, I'm assuming, one of the first Technicolor films in France, and also one of the first in 'Scope. The color is great, but Vadim has no clue how to work with 'Scope. Everything's in long shot with only two or three close-ups of Bardot. What was Vadim thinking??? Brigette Bardot is obviously a gorgeous woman, but she's not a bad actress. When given good material, she can act. This is not good material, so her performance here is mediocre. 5/10.
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