By the Sea

By the Sea centers on Vanessa, a former dancer, and her husband Roland, an American writer. The couple’s relationship appears fractured as they travel through France, eventually settling in a remote coastal town. There, their interactions with a local café owner and a hotel proprietor reveal the complexities of their emotional struggles and the possibility of reconnection.

Angelina Jolie both directed and starred in the film, marking one of her notable projects behind the camera. Brad Pitt plays the role of Roland, and the pair’s real-life partnership adds an additional layer of interest for collectors and fans. Supporting roles are filled by actors such as Mélanie Laurent and Melvil Poupaud, contributing to the film’s intimate and atmospheric tone.

The production was handled by Jolie’s own company, Jolie Pas, alongside Plan B Entertainment and Pellikola. The film’s visual style and pacing reflect a deliberate, contemplative approach, emphasizing mood over conventional narrative momentum. Set design and costume work evoke the 1970s setting, complementing the story’s themes of personal conflict and loss.

By the Sea has a particular appeal for collectors interested in director-driven independent dramas and performances by Pitt and Jolie. The film was released on multiple physical formats, including DVD and Blu-ray, providing options for those building collections focused on contemporary cinema and films with notable behind-the-scenes creative influence. While not a mainstream blockbuster, it holds interest for its artistic ambition and the collaboration between two high-profile actors and filmmakers.