Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: France
A Deep Dive into the 1932 Vision of Maurice Cammage
Analyzing Par habitude (1932) requires a deep dive into the unique directorial voice that Maurice Cammage brought to the screen. By challenging the status quo of 1932 cinema, it continues to spark endless debates among critics and cinephiles alike.
In Par habitude, Maurice Cammage 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 Par habitude, one must consider the cinematic climate of 1932. During this period, France was undergoing significant artistic shifts, and Maurice Cammage was at the forefront of this Short movement, often challenging established norms.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Minimalist |
| Editing | Disjunctive |
| Art Direction | Baroque |
Visualizing the convergence of Maurice Cammage's style and the core Short narrative.
Valentin Bourgeasse is an inveterate drunk. He takes the matter so far that one day he is evicted from his apartment. A few evenings later evening, as he has drunk too much (what else?), he forgets that he doesn't live there anymore so imagine his surprise when he finds a lady in "his" bed.
Decades after its release, Par habitude remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Maurice Cammage's status as a master of the craft in France and beyond.