Vice and Virtue

Name: Vice and Virtue
Director: Roger Vadim
Genre: Drama, Comedy
Released: 1963-01-01
Duration: 108 min
Rating: 5.4
Cast: Annie Girardot, Catherine Deneuve, Robert Hossein, O.E. Hasse, Philippe Lemaire

1963Dir. Roger Vadim1h 48m

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About This Movie

Vice and Virtue is a 1963 drama-comedy directed by Roger Vadim. Set in occupied France during 1944, it explores themes of morality and survival in a tumultuous era. With a runtime of 108 minutes, this film is based on the novel "Justine ou les infortunes de la vertu" by the Marquis de Sade.

The film follows two sisters, Juliette and Justine, during the German occupation of France. Juliette, living a life of privilege as the mistress of Wehrmacht General Bamberg, contrasts sharply with her sister Justine, who is engaged to a member of the Resistance. When Justine seeks Juliette's help, both sisters find themselves at "la Commanderie," where their lives become intertwined with the dark realities of war and exploitation.

Vice and Virtue features a notable cast, including Annie Girardot, Catherine Deneuve, and Robert Hossein. The film’s exploration of the moral complexities faced by the sisters in a war-torn society offers a unique lens on the era. Its blend of drama and comedy provides a distinct approach to serious themes, making it a compelling watch for fans of both genres.

This film is quite elusive, with various formats released over the years, but finding a clean print can be a real challenge. It didn't achieve major commercial success upon release, which contributes to its scarcity today. Collectors appreciate it for its unique take on wartime themes, and it often flies under the radar compared to more mainstream titles from the era, making it a curious gem for those delving into WWII cinema.