Description: The first of what Luis Buñuel later proclaimed a trilogy (along with The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie and The Phantom of Liberty) about "the search for truth," The Milky Way (La voie lactée) daringly deconstructs contemporary and traditional views on Catholicism with ribald, rambunctious surreality. Two French beggars, present-day pilgrims en route to Spain’s holy city of Santiago de Compostela, serve as Buñuel’s narrators for an anticlerical history of heresy, told with absurdity and filled with images that rank among Buñuel’s most memorable (stigmatic children, crucified nuns) and hilarious (Jesus considering a good shave). A diabolically entertaining look at the mysteries of fanaticism, The Milky Way remains a hotly debated work from cinema’s greatest skeptic.
Better than average Bunuel In watching Bunuel, one has to accept the inevitable disconnectedness of surrealism. By providing us with the 'spine' of the two travelers' pilgrimage, the movie has continuity while still allowing the director a free hand for his precociousness. The result is a lot of separate stories, ideas, delightful silliness, and surprises that keep the viewer involved and challenged, but not confused. This is one of the better Bunuel films in my opinion. In addition, the print and color were exceptional, except in a few washed out clips. Finally, the extras were adequate, which is more than I can say for most of the Bunuel offerings I've purchased.
an atheist's guide to spiritual enlightenment despite the weight of the subject at hand, and the disorientation from the rapid montage from one time period to the next, this may be the least surreal of all the French era Bunuels. Within a mix of what for Bunuel seems relatively light provocation, he presents a series of historical religious events that amplify his critique of the Church for it's losing its way through its obsession with infallible detail that contradicts itself as it evolves. i confess that as a fan of the parable of the good samaritan, i share a sense of befuddlement at the intolerance and exclusivity of the fundamentalists of any religion, let alone one founded on love and tolerance.
but what makes Bunuel's argument so interesting is his avowed atheist stance. from his earliest movies on, he has ridiculed the folly of authoritarian ascension, seemingly maintaining full grasp of the beauty of the original that lies beneath the facade. he opens the door for the viewer, while demonstratively refusing to take the step through for himself. one can only wonder what motivations lay at the heart of an artist whose gifts produce such clarity.
An odd stream of consciousness. This was *way* less interesting than some of Bunuel's other work. His "Phantom of Liberty" is brilliant, for instance. He's obsessed, in this film, with some of the nuances of Catholicism. Your enjoyment of this film will be roughly in proportion to your leve of interest in religious philosophy. If you're not interested in religious philosophy, take a pass.
A satirical look at Roman Catholic doctrine This review is for the Criterion Collection DVD edition of the film.
"The Milky Way" released in France as "La Voie lactée" is directed by Luis Buñuel and is about two men on a pilgrimage to a city in Spain. The film is a satire on various tenets of Catholicism and miracles associated with it. The film depicts Marian apparitions, Stigmatics, and other scenes.
This film is likely to offend Christians but Catholics far more so than Protestants. Being a Protestant myself who strongly disagrees with Catholic doctrine, I found this film to be interesting.
The film has some interesting supplements too. They are "Luis Buñuel: Atheist Thanks to God" a documentary about Buñuel's life and the film, an introduction by co-writer Jean-Claude Carrière, an interview with, Ian Christie, and a theatrical trailer.
Not for everyone but still interesting.
one of the best get this film....my favorite scene is when the virgin Mary calls over jesus, after he gives a speech at a dinner, and tells him we're out of wine can you do something. so Bunuel. unlike no other.
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