In this film – by means of a city whose events are significant – we witness a certain world on trial. In fact, no sooner is the atmosphere of Nice and the kind of life one leads there (and elsewhere, alas!) evoked, does the film extend towards the generalisation of vulgar pleasures placed beneath the sign of the grotesque, of flesh and death; these are the final spasms of a society which has let itself go to the point of making you so sick that it will inspire you to become part of a revolutionary solution.
Jean Vigo, Towards a Social Cinema, June 14th, 1930

Did you actually enjoy A propos de Nice? When I think of it being screened in public every evening, I feel a certain unease. While working on it, I forgot that the film was supposed to be entertainment, hence some lengthy passages, some lingering, which you have noticed.
First and foremost, I wanted to provoke nausea. To make – what we look at with indifference, complacency and pleasure when life-size – unbearable to watch at least on screen. Then to bring in some relief with the images of workers and the athmosphere of the factory. / There you have it. / Help me to pursue my best, always. / Reading your words gives me courage. Thank you.
Letter from Jean Vigo to Jean Painlevé, October 7th, 1930

Bernard Eisenschitz