Cleverly cast, visually stunning, writes Mark Orton
Director: Benoit Jacquot
Cast: Lea Seydoux, Diane Kruger, Virginie Ledoyen, Xavier Beauvois, Noemie Lvovsky
Rating: M
4 stars (out of 5)
Combing over an episode of history that has been tackled in film numerous times, director Benoit Jacquot has certainly triumphed when it comes to visual panache.
Taking its cue from the events that led to the French Revolution, Farewell, My Queen focuses on aspects of Marie Antoinette's life immediately prior to her forced departure from the Palace of Versailles.
Seen through the eyes of Sidonie Laborde (Lea Seydoux), an aide who is chosen to read to the queen, Farewell, My Queen is staged almost universally inside the cloistered walls of the palace as news of the peasant revolt in Paris throws their future into doubt.
The palace starts to empty as the servants fear they will be caught in the retribution sought on the royalty.
Focused on her duties to the Queen, Sidonie starts to sense that the Queen might have romantic liaisons other than with her husband, giving rise to one of many legends associated with the life of Marie Antoinette.
Diane Kruger gives a compelling performance as a queen struggling to make sense of the desperation besieging the aristocracy, but she isn't on screen all that often.
Rather it's Lea Seydoux's subtle sexuality and blank canvas that really tie the whole thing together. Cleverly cast to give the viewer a revealing perspective on a pivotal few days in French history, the character of Sidonie is integral for Jacquot in establishing a point of difference.
Rated purely on aesthetic values, Farewell, My Queen is faultless.
Best thing: The costumes and set design: quite outstanding.
Worst thing: The middle third, it loses its way a little.
See it with: Anyone with an eye for detail.
