Cesar & Rosalie

Main Plot

"Cesar & Rosalie," directed by Claude Sautet, is a French romantic drama that explores the complexities of love and relationships. The story revolves around Rosalie, a beautiful and independent woman, who is torn between two men: Cesar, a wealthy and boisterous scrap dealer, and David, a sensitive and introspective artist. Rosalie's past with David resurfaces, reigniting old feelings and creating a love triangle fraught with emotional tension. As the three navigate their intertwined lives, they grapple with jealousy, passion, and the quest for genuine connection. The film delves into the intricacies of human emotions and the unpredictable nature of love, ultimately portraying the bittersweet reality of romantic entanglements.

Characters

• Yves Montand plays César, a wealthy scrap dealer who is romantically involved with Rosalie, creating a love triangle with her ex-lover David, complicating their relationships.
• Romy Schneider plays Rosalie, a woman torn between her ex-husband César and her new lover David, creating a complex love triangle central to the plot.
• David, played by Sami Frey, is Rosalie's former lover who reenters her life, creating a love triangle and tension between Rosalie and her current partner, César.

Ending Explained

In the conclusion of Claude Sautet's film "Cesar & Rosalie," the complex love triangle between Rosalie, Cesar, and David reaches a poignant resolution. Throughout the movie, Rosalie is torn between her love for the passionate and volatile Cesar and her lingering feelings for her former lover, the sensitive and artistic David. As the story unfolds, Cesar's jealousy and possessiveness create tension, while David's return rekindles old emotions in Rosalie. In the final scenes, Cesar and David, who have developed a begrudging respect for each other, come to a mutual understanding. They both realize that their rivalry is causing Rosalie distress and that their love for her should not be a source of pain. In a surprising turn, Cesar decides to step back, acknowledging that Rosalie's happiness is paramount. This act of selflessness leads to a bittersweet but mature conclusion, where Rosalie is left to make her own choice without the pressure of their competing affections. The film ends on an open note, emphasizing the complexities of love and the importance of personal freedom and emotional growth.