Jacques Doniol-Valcroze, a multifaceted French individual, left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. Born on March 15, 1920, in the City of Light, Paris, France, he would go on to forge a remarkable career as a critic, actor, and director.
In 1951, Doniol-Valcroze co-founded the influential film magazine "Cahiers du Cinéma" alongside André Bazin and Joseph-Marie Lo Duca. As the magazine's first editor from 1951 to 1957, he played a pivotal role in championing the works of visionary filmmakers, including Orson Welles, Howard Hawks, and Nicholas Ray.
As a critic, Doniol-Valcroze was a key figure in the French New Wave, discussing the emergence of the new cinema and providing a platform for talented emerging critics and directors, such as Truffaut, Godard, and Rohmer. His own creative endeavors included directing the film "L'Eau à la Bouche" and acting in a few New Wave films, including Chantal Akerman's cult classic "Jeanne Dielman, 23 quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles".
Doniol-Valcroze's personal relationships with prominent filmmakers were also notable. He was close friends with François Truffaut, who shot his first short film "Une Visite" in his apartment. Additionally, he collaborated with Jean-Luc Godard, producing TV short documentaries that showcased Godard's views on cinema, including "Godard à propos de Brigitte Bardot".
In 1968, during the strikes that closed down the Cannes Film Festival, Doniol-Valcroze founded the Director's Fortnight, an event sponsored by his Société des Réalisateurs de Films (Film Directors Society). The intention was to provide a platform for lesser-known filmmakers, without bias towards budget or shooting format. This initiative aimed to open the Cannes Festival to a broader range of cinematic voices.
Tragically, Jacques Doniol-Valcroze passed away on October 6, 1989, at the age of 69, in Cannes, Alpes-Maritimes, France. Despite his passing, his legacy continues to inspire and influence the world of cinema.
