Lavish imagery and a daring soundtrack set this film apart from most period dramas; in fact, style complete takes precedence over plot and character development in Coppola's vision of the doomed queen.
Lavish imagery and a daring soundtrack set this film apart from most period dramas; in fact, style complete takes precedence over plot and character development in Coppola's vision of the doomed queen.
Explore the live of the woman whose name has become synonymous with the French monarchy as filmmakers explore just how one wanton sovereign set into motion the wheels of the French Revolution. From her early childhood in the powerful Austro-Hungarian Empire to her grim final hours in a French prison cell, this two-hour portrait of Marie Antoinette paints a vivid portrait of a historical figure that was as tragic as she was courageous. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
The director squanders a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to film on the grounds and inside the Palace of Versailles. It's the trappings we get, in richly reproduced costumes and all-over gilt furniture, at the expense of any substance.
This is just a lark, a heavy-handed one without the heart of even the bad histories which gave us a Marie who said (as she never did) Let them eat cake.
The montages set to modern rock music work well, further making the heart of the story accessible to the modern viewer. However, if you need your movies to move along quickly, then Marie Antoinette is probably not for you.
For two hours, we are treated to a display of prettiness. It's like one big elaborate meringue, delicate and intricately decorated, but without much past the surface.
As a serious film, only an American could love Marie Antoinette. To the French, it must be gravely insulting. As an unwitting camp, it may have a great future.
For a costumer Coppola separates herself from the pack with, f'instance, rock music interludes (in the pre-Revolutionary French court ... !!! ... "shocking!"), and unusual glimpses into the beyond decadent lives of the rich and famous (which Sofia herself might be well versed in) but she is an unseasoned writer and
only there does this gorgeous, beautifully shot work falter. Worth a look, an artist in the making.
No quotes approved yet for Marie Antoinette. Logged in users can submit quotes.
Submit a Quote from 'Marie Antoinette'
A quote can be a single line from one character or a memorable dialog between several characters. Please make your quotes accurate. Quotes will be submitted for approval by the RT staff.
Example:
Luke: Alright. I'll give it a try. Yoda: No. Try not. Do or do not. There is no try.
Top Critic
