Though advertised as "a film by Jacques Tati," Parade has more in common with a concert documentary. The multitalented French filmmaker Tati began this project by videotaping a performance of a circus show that he did in Sweden. An enterprising producer transferred the tape to film, and presto! Instant movie! Disregarding the fascinating but monotonous footage of various variety acts, the film is at its best when concentrating on the gangly Tati, miming such characters as a circus horse, a boxer, and a soccer goalie. Whenever the action threatens to flag, Parade cuts to a shot of Tati interacting with his enthusiastic circus audience.