---
title: "Betty Blue"
year: 1986
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/betty-blue-1986"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 11986
imdb_id: "tt0090563"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 120
community_rating: 7.2
vote_count: 473
content_rating: "NR"
---

# Betty Blue (1986) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/betty-blue-1986

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

Betty Blue is a 1986 French erotic psychological drama film written and directed by Jean-Jacques Beineix. It is based on the 1985 novel 37°2 le matin by Philippe Djian. The film follows Zorg, a laid-back handyman and aspiring novelist, who becomes involved with Betty, a nineteen-year-old woman. As their relationship develops, Betty begins to experience mental instability. The story explores themes of love, obsession, and psychological decline. It is known for its intense emotional portrayal and stylistic visuals. The film was produced in France and primarily features French dialogue. It has been noted for its cinematic approach to depicting the complexities of a deteriorating romantic relationship. The title refers to the body temperature associated with Betty's fragile mental state. The movie is considered a notable work in 1980s French cinema. It stars actors who portray the central characters navigating this turbulent relationship. The narrative unfolds as the protagonist attempts to support his partner through her struggles.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A handyman attempts to support his girlfriend as she experiences a descent into madness."

### Why Watch
- compelling character study
- emotional depth

### Caveats & Content Note
- heavy subject matter
- Tone & Suitability: The film contains themes regarding mental health and psychological instability.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: dramatic, intense, psychological

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | Criterion Channel | None | Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube |
| **United Kingdom (GB)** | BFI Player, BFI Player Amazon Channel, BFI Player Apple TV Channel | None | Apple TV Store, Rakuten TV |
| **Canada (CA)** | Criterion Channel | None | Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Jean-Jacques Beineix
- **Networks / Studios**: Cargo Films

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Jean-Hugues Anglade** as *Zorg*
- **Béatrice Dalle** as *Betty*
- **Gérard Darmon** as *Eddy*
- **Consuelo De Haviland** as *Lisa*
- **Clémentine Célarié** as *Annie*
- **Jacques Mathou** as *Bob*
- **Vincent Lindon** as *Richard le jeune policier*
- **Catherine D'At** as *Client de la pizzeria*
- **Claude Aufaure** as *Docteur*
- **Louis Bellanti** as *Mario*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: Is this film based on a true story?
The provided information does not state whether the film is based on a true story.

### Q: What is the film about?
The story follows a handyman and aspiring novelist supporting his girlfriend as she succumbs to madness.

### Q: Who are the main characters?
The film features a lackadaisical handyman and his younger girlfriend.

### Q: Is this film suitable for all audiences?
The film deals with themes of madness and is a psychological drama.

### Q: What is the genre of the film?
The film is a drama centered on the relationship between a handyman and his girlfriend.

## Grounded Source Citations

- [Betty](https://betty.com/)
- [Betty Blue - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Betty_Blue)
- [Medical, Cleaning & Sanitary Supplies | Betty Mills](https://www.bettymills.com/)
- [Betty Blue (1986) #film - YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8Nhti0Qzus)
- [Congresswoman Betty McCollum |Representing the 4th District of …](https://mccollum.house.gov/)
- [Betty Blue (1986) - Plot - IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0090563/plotsummary/)

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*