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Bardot A Go Go uses images gathered from photographs, record sleeves, magazines, posters and television programs never seen by American eyes. Visually, the charismatic music scene in France during the 60s is extensively represented. Magazines of the time such as Salut les copains and Rock and Folk were filled with pictures of established and up and coming French pop stars of the period. Variety television shows like Dents de lait, dents de loup (a Gallic version of American Bandstand) brought the the glamour and excitement into the living rooms of 60s era French teenagers. The abundance of footage depicting French pop stars lip-synching their songs in short film vignettes strongly suggests that the French invented the music video–many produced as early as 1963. In addition, the French created the Scopitone–16mm film version of a song made specifically to be played in a visual jukebox. Drop a few coins in the machine, make your selection and see your favorite artists perform their latest releases. Bardot A Go Go utilizes this wealth of creative and fun images to bring the 60s French music scene back to life. Intercut with interviews of the stars, record producers, disc jockeys and fans of the period the Bardot A Go Go tells the inspiring stories of the participants. In the face of the dominance of The Beatles, the British Invasion and American Rock and Roll, the French were undeterred in contributing their unique voice to popular music. Considering the magnitude and worldwide popularity that their Anglo counterparts enjoyed, Bardot A Go Go shows that third place was still a great place to be. |