The School of Flesh

(Columbia TriStar)

Benoît Jacquot's study of the various stages of womanhood focuses here on Isabelle Huppert as a flush but single and pushing-40 fashion executive; she picks up young hustler Vincent Martinez -- who does men and women, tends to be violent, and is interested only in money -- and their games of power and submission take precedence over any passion. Flesh is acutely observed, almost clinical in its detachment as it confronts the ambiguities of women's desire and strength.