More (1969)

"More" (1969) is a landmark film in Barbet Schroeder's career, a raw and unflinching exploration of youthful abandon and the devastating grip of addiction. The film follows Stefan, a newly graduated German student, as he embarks on a self-destructive odyssey fueled by a desire for adventure. His travels lead him from Paris, where he resorts to petty crime, to the sun-drenched island of Ibiza, where he encounters the enigmatic American girl Estelle. What starts as a whirlwind romance quickly descends into a tragic cycle of heroin dependence, showcasing Schroeder's early talent for capturing the stark realities of the counterculture. This film unequivocally earns its place among Schroeder's best. "More" is not only a visually stunning and emotionally resonant cinematic experience, but also a key piece in understanding Schroeder's directorial style. It foreshadows his later themes of obsession, moral ambiguity, and the allure of the forbidden, all while offering a compelling portrait of a generation grappling with freedom and its consequences. Furthermore, the film's haunting soundtrack, composed by Pink Floyd, elevates its impact, becoming an integral part of the narrative and solidifying its place as a cinematic masterpiece.