This book offers a comprehensive examination of the life and work of the influential French film director Jacques Rivette. Douglas Morrey, drawing on extensive archival research and critical analysis, delves into Rivette's distinctive cinematic style, his thematic preoccupations, and his significant contributions to the French New Wave and beyond. The book traces Rivette's career from his early critical writings to his later, more complex feature films, exploring the recurring motifs of games, theatre, and the elusive nature of truth that characterize his oeuvre.

This biography is recognized for its scholarly depth and comprehensive approach to the work of Jacques Rivette. Critics have noted Douglas Morrey's meticulous research and insightful analysis, which illuminate the complexities of Rivette's often challenging cinema. The book is considered an essential resource for students and scholars of film, offering a detailed account of one of the French New Wave's most enigmatic figures. It provides a valuable perspective on Rivette's unique artistic vision and his lasting impact on filmmaking.