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Le Vertige

Name: Le Vertige
Director: Marcel L'Herbier
Released: 1926
Duration: 130 min

Representation Score

3.3/10

Limited

1926

Director

Marcel L'Herbier

Runtime

130 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Marcel L'Herbier’s work centers on the internal emotional landscapes of its characters. While visually innovative, the film remains rooted in the socioeconomic and racial hierarchies of early 20th-century Europe. The narrative focuses on the displacement of the aristocracy following the Russian Revolution. This narrow class-based perspective limits the film's cultural and racial diversity. Ultimately, the film's progressive nature lies in its focus on individual internal experiences, even though it lacks modern demographic inclusivity.

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Category Breakdown

Does Le Vertige have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on traditional romantic relationships and infidelity. There are no depictions of LGBTQ narratives or non-cisgender identities.

How does Le Vertige portray gender?

Fair

The Countess plays a central role in driving the story psychologically, but her loyalty to her husband after a violent act reflects traditional feminine roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Le Vertige?

Minimal

Set within the European aristocracy and Russian diaspora, the film reflects the homogeneous high society of the 1920s. No non-white characters are present.

How does Le Vertige represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story looks at the fall of the Czarist regime through the lens of aristocratic displacement. It focuses on personal trauma rather than broader ideological critiques.

Does Le Vertige include disability representation?

Limited

The film doesn't include physical disabilities but explores psychological instability. It uses Impressionist techniques to show internal mental distress.

Present on Screen

Focuses on the female protagonist's internal psychological state.
Uses Impressionist techniques to depict internal mental and emotional distress.
Explores the psychological impact of historical political upheaval.

Limited or Absent

Lacks racial and ethnic diversity within the aristocratic setting.
Adheres to traditional gender roles regarding female loyalty.
Doesn't include queer narratives or non-cisgender identities.

Official Synopsis

The film opens with the overthrow of the Czar during the 1917 Russian revolution. The family of General Count Svirsky (Roger Karl) cower in their home, certain that the mobs of angry peasants will tear them apart. But even in this moment of crisis, Svirsky can find time to murder the young officer who has been having an affair with Countess Svirska (Emmy Lynn). The Countess knows what has happened, but she loyally remains with her husband as they escape to the safety of the French Riviera. It is here that the Countess meets Henri de Cassel (Jaque Catelain), the “living image” of her dead lover.

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