Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: France
A Deep Dive into the 1932 Vision of Joe May
The thematic gravity of Companion Wanted (1932) is rooted in the historical context that Joe May weaves into the Comedy fabric. Synthesizing the best elements of France and international cinema, it highlights the importance of independent voices in France.
In Companion Wanted, Joe May pushes the boundaries of conventional narrative. The film's unique approach to its subject matter has sparked endless debates and interpretations among cinephiles and critics alike.
To fully appreciate Companion Wanted, one must consider the cinematic climate of 1932. During this period, France was undergoing significant artistic shifts, and Joe May was at the forefront of this Comedy movement, often challenging established norms.
| Cinematography | Noir-Inspired |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Invisible |
| Art Direction | Kitsch |
Visualizing the convergence of Joe May's style and the core Comedy narrative.
A young saleslady travels by car to the Riviera with a modest seeming young man who, it turns out, is really a wealthy nobleman.
Decades after its release, Companion Wanted remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Joe May's status as a master of the craft in France and beyond.