Mon oncle (4K Restoration)

Although Jacques Tati (1907–1982) made only six feature films, he is considered one of the most important and innovative post-war filmmakers. As director, writer, producer, and leading actor, he created a timeless body of work filled with affectionate details, perfect timing, and subtle, silent humour.

From Thursday 30 July, you can enjoy six weeks dedicated to the timeless work of this unique filmmaker. All six of his feature films will be shown on the big screen in beautifully restored versions.

Mon Oncle takes place between two sharply contrasting worlds: a hypermodern, sterile residential neighbourhood and a more traditional, lively environment. In the ultra-modern home of the Arpel family, everything is automated and meticulously organised, but as a result there is little room for spontaneity or play. Their son Gérard grows up in this controlled environment and is visibly bored. The arrival of Monsieur Hulot, Madame Arpel’s brother, disrupts this carefully ordered world. His relaxed and playful way of life constantly clashes with the logic of efficiency and design, leading to a series of comic situations. At the same time, he becomes an unexpected source of imagination and freedom for the young Gérard.

In an attempt to limit his influence, Hulot is even given a job at his brother-in-law’s plastic factory, where he once again creates chaos within a system designed to function perfectly. The film has been restored in 4K, allowing the visual precision of Tati’s mise-en-scène, the architecture of the modern world, and the physical comedy to shine even more clearly.

Mon Oncle marks a transition towards Tati’s more analytical and visually composed cinema, in which humour emerges from space, rhythm, and the clash between human beings and their modern surroundings.