A ballet visibly stresses the performant function even though, traditionally, it also claims to communicate some meaning. In sports, the performant function dominates more openly; but, in a symbiotic relation, it derives much of its vitality from a grafted referential function that operates through cultural signs. … As a rule, however, the performant function, when it is supported by truly impressive circus performances, tends to monopolize the audience's attention.

... caressing that favourite monkey who acted such a conspicuous part at the Apotheosis of her goddessship at Paris, as hath been already related in the ...

That's mine! Gi's it! Gi's it!

The Godardian vision of a universe that is both lost and recuperable in time is the thread that holds this movie and all his others together.