The younger Garrel became interested in film and started his career early, influenced by the new work of Jean-Luc Godard and François Truffaut.

Over a ten-year period, Garrel enjoyed a good run of critical recognition at the Venice Film Festival.

Garrel met German singer and actress Nico in 1969 when she performed the song "The Falconer" for his film Le Lit de la Vierge (The Virgin's Bed).

Songs from the soundtrack were included in Nico's album Desertshore, which featured stills from the film on the front and back covers.

[1] On 30 August 2023, Garrel was accused of sexual harassment by five actresses, including Anna Mouglalis and Marie Vialle.