Meaning: The quote by Eva Green sheds light on her personal connection to the French New Wave cinema movement and the impact it had on her. The French New Wave, or La Nouvelle Vague, was a significant movement in French cinema during the late 1950s and 1960s, characterized by its innovative and unconventional filmmaking techniques. Directors such as Jean-Luc Godard, François Truffaut, and Agnès Varda were at the forefront of this movement, which sought to break away from traditional cinematic conventions and embrace a more personal and experimental approach to storytelling.

Eva Green's mention of her mother's involvement in New Wave cinema indicates that she has a familial connection to this influential period in film history. Her comment about being "shocked" by her lack of knowledge about the era suggests that despite her familial ties, she may not have been fully aware of the significance of the New Wave movement and its impact on the film industry.

The mention of Bernardo Bertolucci showing films of the demonstrations of the time to Eva Green and her peers indicates a broader cultural and historical context surrounding the New Wave. The movement was not only a revolution in filmmaking but also reflected the social and political upheavals of the time. The demonstrations referenced could be related to the events of May 1968 in France, a period of civil unrest and student protests that had a profound impact on French society and culture, including the world of cinema.

The quote highlights the importance of understanding the historical and cultural context in which artistic movements like the French New Wave emerged. It also emphasizes the influence of personal experiences and family background in shaping one's awareness and appreciation of artistic movements. For Eva Green, discovering the significance of the New Wave through the films and demonstrations shown by Bertolucci likely provided her with a deeper understanding of her mother's work and the broader impact of the movement.

In the broader context of film history, the French New Wave continues to be celebrated for its bold experimentation with narrative and visual style. The movement's influence can be seen in the work of filmmakers around the world and its legacy continues to inspire contemporary cinema. By acknowledging her connection to the New Wave and expressing her surprise at her previous lack of knowledge about it, Eva Green highlights the ongoing relevance and impact of this pivotal period in film history.

In conclusion, Eva Green's quote provides a glimpse into her personal connection to the French New Wave, the cultural and political context in which it emerged, and the enduring influence of this groundbreaking cinematic movement. It serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding the historical and social backdrop of artistic movements and the ways in which personal experiences can shape our awareness and appreciation of cultural heritage.