Once it's lost, innocence cannot be found again.

The Valley (Obscured by Clouds)

(1972)

Barbet Schroeder's second film and something of a continuation of the deconstruction of the hippy ideal sighted in Easy Rider. But more articulate than a "We blew it", as one character (Michael Gothard) expounds on why he and his companions are nothing more than tourists in a society of even greater restrictions and oppressions than the one they are seeking to drop out from.

This is low-key filmmaking, Schroeder hanging back with the camera and taking a semi-documentary approach, particularly in his observation of the behaviour and traditions of the actual Papua New Guinean tribe that features. The lead, a bored spoilt diplomat's wife (Bulle Ogier in one of only two film roles) on a quest for illegal plumage, comes on as something of a cliché, but naturalistic performances help to sell the hokier elements. She becomes attracted to the quest (Led by Jean-Pierre Kalfon) for a mythical uncharted valley where utopian dreams may be fulfilled.

There's a Pink Floyd soundtrack, but it's more of a book-end than a constant presence (it makes an effective contrast to the observational visual style).

***1/2

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