Carrie Rickey was deeply moved when her professor, artist Manny Farber, screened Agnès Varda’s film Cléo from 5 to 7 (1962) for her class back in 1971. At that time, she had no idea that women were involved in making movies. This pivotal moment sparked her curiosity and led her to delve deeper into the life and work of Agnès Varda, resulting in the first English-language biography of the renowned director, screenwriter, artist, and photographer. In her book, A Complicated Passion: The Life and Work of Agnès Varda (2024), Rickey sets out on a mission to keep Varda’s legacy alive by exploring her multifaceted career and personal journey.
Drawing on primary sources such as Varda’s children, Rosalie and Mathieu, as well as the filmmaker’s own writings, Rickey meticulously traces Varda’s life within the context of significant historical and cultural movements. From her early days in Ixelles, Belgium, to her artistic evolution in Paris, particularly in the vibrant community of Montparnasse, where she resided for nearly seven decades, Varda’s story is presented with scrupulous detail and affectionate reverence.
The book is structured into three parts, each reflecting a different phase of Varda’s career – from her beginnings as a photographer to her later ventures into filmmaking and installation art. Rickey highlights Varda’s pioneering spirit, emphasizing her role as a trailblazer in the French New Wave movement. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, Varda continued to create groundbreaking films that addressed a wide range of social and political issues, from abortion rights to infidelity.
Rickey’s narrative is enriched with colorful anecdotes and insightful analysis of Varda’s cinematic achievements. While she maintains a scholarly approach in her descriptions of Varda’s works, there is a sense of detachment that may not fully capture the passion and emotion inherent in Varda’s films. Nevertheless, A Complicated Passion serves as a valuable tribute to Varda’s enduring legacy, offering a comprehensive and well-researched account of her life and artistry.
For those interested in exploring Agnès Varda’s work further, A Complicated Passion: The Life and Work of Agnès Varda (2024) by Carrie Rickey is a must-read. Available online and through independent booksellers, this book provides a compelling insight into the remarkable journey of a visionary filmmaker who continues to inspire audiences worldwide.
