(Written and directed by Jaques Demy; starring Jeanne Moreau, Claude Mann, Paul Guers, Henri Nassiet, and Conchita Parodi. Released 01 March 1963; watched 2023w16 via Criterion Channel)

Another (qualified) win from Tycherion's random Criterion Channel selection (this time without any decision data entered; I simply "accepted my fate"): first Demy film which, while a deeply moving – painfully so, at times – daylight noir (though this isn't considered a noir, I consider it one as it follows two people falling victim to the temptation of their addictions) owes its elevated position not only to Demy's writing and directing but to the magnificent lead performance by Jeanne Moreau: her Jackie is one of the great, unsung noir characters, a bright light forever chained to the dark cloud above her. As for why it’s a qualified win: the suddenness of the jarring, flick-of-a-switch turn at the end kills the noirness of the previous 88 minutes for me – though I suppose it doesn't preclude Jackie and Jean from beginning their destructive cycle anew on the other side of the credits.