PARIS, TEXAS (1984): A Review Of Wim Wenders Masterpiece

Introduction

Wim Wenders tells a powerfully quiet story in Paris, Texas (1984) which impeccably evokes emotion through flawless writing and cinematography. In the film, mysterious circumstances leave Travis Henderson stranded in the desolate deserts of Texas with no recollection of his past. After his brother Walt retrieves and reintroduces him to society, these circumstances force Travis to make difficult decisions regarding how he will move forward with his life.

Synopsis

In a groundbreaking performance delivered by Harry Dean Stanton, Travis manages to begin as an amnesiac outsider but slowly transitions into a tragic hero once he comes to terms with the film’s primary message. You can never return to the same place twice or meet the same person twice. Wenders brilliantly guides the audience into Travis’ past at the film’s beginning. Travis’ obsession with the location of Paris, Texas, where he believes he was conceived, immediately provides a melancholy feel.

Once he arrives, he realizes that Paris, Texas is just another piece of barren land without any inherent meaning beyond his childhood stories. And Travis meeting his son, Hunter (Hunter Carson), who barely recognizes him, delivers another strong pang of sadness. As Travis watches a film of him taking his family on a road trip play out before his eyes, the audience has the same sudden realization as Travis. His life was beautiful, and Travis could never revisit it except through these grainy videos.

This well of emotions has no end as Travis takes his son on a road trip in a last-ditch attempt to reconnect with his ex-lover, Jane (Nastassja Kinski), only to be faced with the same blunt reminder of the time that has passed when he follows her car to a peepshow. Travis fully unveils the reality of the situation when Jane does not recognize Travis’ voice. But after describing his past wrongdoings and abuses against his family, Jane recognizes Travis for his actions instead.

In one of the most heartbreaking scenes in cinema, Travis watches Jane for the last time before leaving his old family behind. He leaves Hunter waiting in a hotel room for Jane and leaves town in the same fashion he describes leaving them in the past, only this time with more closure, understanding, and honor. The audience fully understands that Travis’ old way of life has passed, tainted by his actions. Not only can he not return, but perhaps he does not deserve to.

Analysis

Cinematographer Robby Müller’s work greatly complements this bittersweet realization during the legendary final phone scene and the general loneliness of shots throughout the film. The audience can watch the movie without sound and still fully relate to Travis’ ultimate loneliness, even as he speaks to Jane through the peepshow window.

The film’s incredible cinematography and dramatic use of color make Paris, Texas a masterclass in both storytelling and visuals. In every long pause of dialogue, Wenders grants you ample time to contemplate the story of Travis as the desolate imagery and deep colors accompany the viewers on their journey.

Conclusion

Paris, Texas is a film that takes you effortlessly through the protagonist’s journey while simultaneously forcing you to reflect on your own. The countless messages in the movie easily apply to every audience member’s life, and the slow pace makes Travis Henderson’s circumstances much more realistic. For these reasons, countless critics rightfully applaud Paris, Texas as one of the greatest films of all time.

Directed by Wim Wenders, Paris, Texas is currently available to stream on HBO Max, Apple TV, The Criterion Channel, and Amazon Prime Video.

If You Enjoyed This Article We Recommend:

The Hollywood Vampires: A Drunken Oral History (Click Here)

Meryl Streep and John Cazale: A Love Story (Click Here)

This History of Warner Brothers Animation (Click Here)

If You Don’t Want To Miss Any Of Our Content In The Future Like Us On Facebook and Follow Us On Twitter and Instagram