Watch Vive le Tour

Vive le Tour is a 1962 French documentary film which showcases the Tour de France cycling race of the same year. The film is directed by Louis Malle, with narration by Jean Bobet, and features prominent French cyclists Jacques Anquetil and Raymond Poulidor. The film provides an exhilarating and visually stunning representation of the grueling 21-stage race, which takes place over 4,000 kilometers and stretches across the French countryside. Apart from showcasing the tense and thrilling moments of the race, the movie explores the physical and mental challenges that the cyclists have to undergo during this legendary race. From steep mountain climbs to sprints on flat roads, the movie depicts the various facets of the race, and captures the spirit of competitiveness, endurance, and camaraderie that characterizes it.

The movie takes us behind the scenes into the private lives of the cyclists, depicting their preparation and training prior to the race. Through interviews with the riders and glimpses into their private lives, we get a deeper understanding of their motivation, techniques, and strategies. The film also explores the relationships between the riders, their team managers, and the media.

One of the most interesting aspects of the movie is the contrasting personalities of Jacques Anquetil and Raymond Poulidor. Anquetil is presented as calm, composed, and supremely confident, while Poulidor is depicted as determined, persistent, and passionate. The two riders are arch-rivals in the race, and the tension between them is palpable. Their rivalry has become legendary in the Tour, and the movie does justice in capturing and dramatizing that.

Vive le Tour also offers a unique perspective on the French landscape and culture. The movie incorporates plenty of scenic shots of the French countryside, with its rolling hills, vineyards, and quaint towns. The film showcases the French people, their love for the sport, and their colorful traditions such as the children who run alongside the cyclists on their bikes.

The cinematography is noteworthy; it captures the movement of the cyclists as well as the magnificent scenery. The camera crew follows the cyclists closely, from behind them, alongside them, and from helicopters overhead. The close-up shots of the cyclists' bloody and exhausted faces show how physically taxing the race is. The movie incorporates beautiful black and white footage of the race, which enhances the beauty of the setting, making the viewer feel as though they were right there, in the midst of the race.

Overall, Vive le Tour is a captivating and authentic depiction of the famous French bicycle race. The movie offers a rare glimpse into the lives of the cyclists, and the challenges they have to overcome in order to compete. It has historical significance as it recounts the Tour de France at a time when cycling in France was at the height of its popularity. Above all, the movie captures the spirit of the race and the passion and dedication of the cyclists who participate in it. If you are interested in sports documentaries or the Tour de France race, this movie is definitely worth watching.