Reviewing this as slow or shallow proves that one is not understanding the French culture or French cinema of that time as well as being oneself shallowly viewing this rather powerful depiction of inner psychological struggle. This is a magnificent film in many aspects. One of which being the fine details in voice, gestures and dialogue. Small moments and looks. In addition to the layer of dialogue and the actually normal moving pace there is an emotional layer found in the expressions and behaviour of the characters towards one another. This is by far anything but shallow but, in fact, the opposite. It requires empathy and emotional perception to be able to enjoy it. While it is often painful and full of strong emotions, it tells the viewer a lot about human relations and feelings. Jealousy and revenge as the primary, and at times soul destroying, ones on display. Subtlety isn't for everyone to uncover. The actors transport those emotions in a very real fashion. Their helplessness in that struggle doesn't appear to be superficial but honestly felt. One can observe the true love Alain Delon possesses for Romy Schneider. It is understandable that even today this film is stirring up such strong feelings inside him. It may be exhausting to viewers for whom reality and real feelings are too slow or too painful to confront. It may also be hard to comprehend when one can't relate to those situations. Yet this is exactly what makes this film so outstanding and beautiful.
Review of The Swimming Pool
