Hélas pour moi functions as a spiritually ruminative voyage of discovery; a journalistic query existent in the impasse between memory and actuality -- two concepts explored by Godard with artistic diligence and soul. Every scene resembles a morbid vignette and every gesture is fraught with the rigidity of performance in this arresting gem. That it works so stupendously is surely testament to Godard's mastery of the cinematic craft.

Completely incomprehensible, but strangely compelling Godard experiment; strikingly photographed and invested with a startling soundtrack (Depardieu is also terrific under the circumstances). Moments of insight and success buried beneath the haphazard narrative style; while this is undoubtedly Godard's goal and purpose, it doesn't make the finished product any easier to decipher or indeed 'enjoy' in any conventional way.

Might be one of the most visually striking and beautiful films I've ever seen, as well as one of the most aurally arresting (seriously the sound design on this is amazing). The film has this very dreamlike feel to it, and some of the things that the characters say rang very true to me. It could be even better on a rewatch where it will be easier to dechipher and things will link together more, but even first time round this sort of stuff affects me on a very personal level.

Godard's visually most beautiful work and my second-favorite overall (better than Notre Musique or Forever Mozart which i also watched recently).