La Vagabonde: A quiet, dusty look at independence

Is this worth a watch?

Honestly, if you want a plot that moves at a breakneck speed, look elsewhere. La Vagabonde is for the people who like watching someone just sit in a room, think, and try to figure out their next move. If you hate slow-burn character studies, you will probably be bored out of your mind within ten minutes. ☕

It’s based on a Colette novel, and you can tell. It feels intimate, almost like you’re reading a diary someone left open on a train seat. Renée is the lead, and she’s got this weary look in her eyes that stays with you long after the credits roll.

The Rhythm of the Thing

There is this one scene where she is just packing her bags. It lasts forever. Most movies would have skipped it or added music to make it feel important. Here? You just hear the rustle of clothes and the creak of the floorboards. It makes you feel like you are actually there, witnessing the weight of her decision.

The music hall sequences are strange, too. They have this odd, dusty charm. Like, the lighting is a bit off, and the makeup looks a little too thick, but that’s the point. It’s not some polished Hollywood dream. It feels like a real, tiring job.

• Marcelle Chantal is incredible. She doesn't have to say a word to show you she's done with her husband's nonsense.
• The pacing is definitely not for everyone. It’s almost too patient.
• I found myself wishing they’d spent more time in the backstage dressing rooms. There’s something about that clutter that feels so lived-in.

Some Thoughts

It’s funny, I kept thinking about The Saleslady while watching this. Both movies are about women trying to find their footing in a world that isn't really built for them. But while that one has a certain pep to it, La Vagabonde just feels... heavier. More real, maybe?

The dialogue is sparse. Sometimes people just stare at each other for five seconds too long. It starts to feel awkward, which I think is on purpose. It really captures how hard it is to actually tell someone what you're feeling.

I wasn't a fan of the ending, though. It just sort of stops. Like they ran out of film or money. Maybe that’s the most honest way to end a story about being a wanderer, but it left me feeling a bit frustrated. Still, I’m glad I watched it. It’s a quiet little gem that doesn't ask for much, but gives you plenty to chew on later. 🎞️