The Green Ray (French title: Le Rayon Vert) is a 1986 French film directed by Eric Rohmer. The movie follows the story of a young woman named Delphine, played by Marie Riviere, who is struggling with her own loneliness and anxiety. Delphine is recently single and her closest friend has just cancelled their summer vacation plans at the last minute, leaving her alone during the long summer months.
Despite her initial disappointment, Delphine decides to take the opportunity to embark on a journey of self-discovery. She sets out on a series of solo trips and encounters new people, while trying to come to terms with herself and her place in the world.
The Green Ray refers to a rare natural phenomenon when the sun sets just below the horizon and a green flash appears for a second before the sun disappears completely. Delphine is intrigued by the idea of witnessing this event and believes it to be a sign of good things to come.
Throughout her journey, she meets a variety of people, each bringing their own perspective on life. Some of these encounters are heartwarming, while others are more confusing and disorienting. With each new experience, Delphine learns a little more about herself and the world around her.
The movie is often described as a study of the human condition and the desire for connection. The Green Ray is a contemplative, slow-moving film, with naturalistic performances and a meditative tone. The cinematography is beautiful, capturing the serene landscapes of the French countryside.
The Green Ray was well-received by critics and is considered one of Rohmer's finest films. It was nominated for the Golden Lion award at the 1986 Venice Film Festival, and Marie Riviere won the Cesar Award for Best Actress in 1987.