Jacques Tati

The Profile

Jacques Tati (1907–1982) was a French filmmaker, actor and mime best known for the Monsieur Hulot films and for his visual, satirical takes on modern life.

Born Jacques Tatischeff (1907–1982). Creator and performer of the character Monsieur Hulot. Best known films include Les Vacances de Monsieur Hulot (1953), Mon Oncle (1958) and Playtime (1967). Mon Oncle won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film (1959). Playtime famously involved the construction of a large modern set sometimes called "Tativille."

Two appreciative DeBaser reviews highlight Tati's critique of modernity and his visual, largely dialog-light comedy. Playtime and Mon Oncle are singled out for their staging and satirical view of consumer society. Reviews note Tati's mime background and influence on later filmmakers.