Z
Directed by Costa-Gavras • 1969 • Algeria, France
Starring Yves Montand, Jean-Louis Trintignant, Irene Papas
A pulse-pounding political thriller, Greek expatriate director Costa-Gavras’s Z was one of the cinematic sensations of the late sixties, and remains among the most vital dispatches from that hallowed era of filmmaking. This Academy Award winner—loosely based on the 1963 assassination of Greek left-wing activist Gregoris Lambrakis—stars Yves Montand as a prominent politician and doctor whose public murder amid a violent demonstration is covered up by military and government officials; Jean-Louis Trintignant is the tenacious magistrate who’s determined not to let them get away with it. Featuring kinetic, rhythmic editing, Raoul Coutard’s expressive vérité photography, and Mikis Theodorakis’s unforgettable, propulsive score, Z is a technically audacious and emotionally gripping masterpiece.
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Z
Directed by Costa-Gavras • 1969 • Algeria, France
Starring Yves Montand, Jean-Louis Trintignant, Irene PapasA pulse-pounding political thriller, Greek expatriate director Costa-Gavras’s Z was one of the cinematic sensations of the late sixties, and remains among the most vital dispatches from t...
Extras
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Z Commentary
This audio commentary by film historian and writer Peter Cowie was recorded in 2009.
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It’s Intentional: Costa-Gavras on Z
In this 2009 interview, director Costa-Gavras recalls Greece’s volatile post–World War II era, the making of Z, and the film’s timely release.
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Raoul Coutard Shoots Z
In 2009, cinematographer Raoul Coutard discusses his experience working with Costa-Gavras on Z.
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Vassilis Vassilikos on “Z”
In this 1967 French television interview, author Vassilis Vassilikos discusses his book “Z.”
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“Pour le cinéma”: Z
In these excerpts from the December 2, 1968, episode of “Pour le cinéma,” director Costa-Gavras; producer and actor Jacques Perrin; and actors Yves Montand, Irene Papas, and Jean-Louis Trintignant talk about the making of Z.
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Costa-Gavras, Perrin, and Dux on Z
In this April 15, 1969, French television interview, director Costa-Gavras, producer and actor Jacques Perrin; and actor Pierre Dux talk about the making of Z.
