My Favorite Films: Claire’s Knee (1971)

Éric Rohmer, 1971
PG; 103 minutes; French with English subtitles

Jérôme (Jean-Claude Brialy) decides to prepare for a lifetime of matrimony by enjoying one last vacation by himself. Upon arriving at his lakeside destination, however, he finds Aurora (Aurora Cornu), a love from his past who is staying nearby. Through Aurora, Jerome is introduced to two teenage sisters, Laura (Béatrice Romand) and Claire (Laurence de Monaghan). Although Laura is smitten with Jerome, it is Claire—or, more precisely, her knee—that fascinates the soon-to-be-married man.

“My Favorite Films” features tales of romance, humor, suspense, satire, and heroism with films since 1945. This series may hold special memories for you—no matter how many times you see them, they continue to draw you in. While many of these films are available through streaming, it’s always more fun to see them in the theater.

Make a day of it at the Modern and include extra time to visit the galleries and special exhibitions. Enjoy lunch in Café Modern and then settle in for an afternoon screening, or plan for a coffee break afterwards with fellow film enthusiasts.

Screenings are most Wednesdays at 2 p.m. in the Modern’s auditorium. Tickets are $5 (FREE for Modern members), available at the museum’s admission desk. Click here to purchase tickets online.