**Jean Vigo (1907-1934)** was an influential French film director whose brief but brilliant career, cut short by tuberculosis, had a lasting impact on world cinema. Although he directed only four films, two of them are considered masterpieces.

His most renowned short film, **"Zéro de Conduite" (1933)**, is a bold and anarchic portrayal of student rebellion in a boarding school, infused with surrealism and anti-authoritarian satire. His only feature film, **"L'Atalante" (1934)**, is a tender and lyrical love story set on a river barge, blending poetic realism with dreamlike touches and profound humanity.

Vigo's style, characterized by a visceral realism mixed with fantastic elements and a great sensitivity for characters, anticipated themes and techniques of Neorealism and the Nouvelle Vague (New Wave). His work, though limited, left an immense artistic legacy, celebrated for its originality and expressive power.