
PlayTime
dir. Jacques Tati
89
8 sourcesSynopsis
Clumsy Monsieur Hulot finds himself perplexed by the intimidating complexity of a gadget-filled Paris. He attempts to meet with a business contact but soon becomes lost. His roundabout journey parallels that of an American tourist, and as they weave through the inventive urban environment, they intermittently meet, developing an interest in one another. They eventually get together at a chaotic restaurant, along with several other quirky characters.
Critics consensus
A remarkable achievement, Playtime's packs every scene with sight gags and characters that both celebrates and satirizes the urbanization of modern life.
What resonated with audiences
'Playtime' is an extraordinary artistic achievement with unparalleled cinematography and legendary production design, including the massive Tativille set. The film delivers incisive social commentary on modern life through inventive visual comedy and thought-provoking observations. However, opinions sharply divide on engagement, with some finding it an absolute delight while others consider it tedious. The deliberate pacing and two-hour runtime prove challenging for many viewers, though admirers celebrate Tati's singular vision and ambitious scope.

Directed byJacques Tati
StarringJacques Tati, Barbara Dennek, Rita Maiden, France Rumilly, France Delahalle, Valérie Camille
Written byJacques Tati, Art Buchwald, Jacques Lagrange
CinematographyJean Badal
EditingGérard Pollicand
MusicFrancis Lemarque
PlayTime
1967 · 1h 55m
Comedy
Clumsy Monsieur Hulot finds himself perplexed by the intimidating complexity of a gadget-filled Paris. He attempts to meet with a business contact but soon becomes lost. His roundabout journey parallels that of an American tourist, and as they weave through the inventive urban environment, they intermittently meet, developing an interest in one another. They eventually get together at a chaotic restaurant, along with several other quirky characters.
