JEANNE DU BARRY
French filmmaker Maïwenn wears multiple hats in her latest film, the period drama JEANNE DU BARRY. The film introduces audiences to the dazzling titular courtesan that changed the French Court forever.
The script tackles the sheer absurdity of royal existence, highlighting everything from tradition to mundane routines, some undeniably laughable. Louis allows Jeanne a behind-the-scenes look at the realities of the French Court, and the audience is along for the ride and education.
The fragility of Jeanne’s station and extraordinary influence are beautifully nurtured by Lavernhe’s continuous narration. On the other hand, we also experience the vitriol Jeanne received from anyone threatened by her existence. Her boundless love is her only Achilles.
Johnny Depp is King Louis XV. Unsurprising, Depp eats the role alive with effortless charm. The with which he settles into any role is on full display. His star power has not waned one bit.
Benjamin Lavernhe delivers an unforgettable performance as La Borde. He is Jeanne’s guide to life at court and the only entirely human interaction anyone encounters. Lavernhe is the emotional stronghold of the film.
Maïwenn gives Jeanne a ceaselessly passionate and curious air. Her gentle elegance and care for her fellow actors beam off the screen. She is nothing less than captivating. Depp and Maïwenn’s chemistry is off the charts. She and Lavernhe take your breath away.
Wrapped in stunning camera work, sumptuous production and costume design, and Stephen Warbeck’s melancholy score that vibrates through your body, JEANNE DU BARRY is a period drama lover’s dream.
Only In Theaters beginning May 2, 2024
DIRECTED BY:
Maïwenn
WRITTEN BY:
Maïwenn, Teddy Lussi-Modeste and Nicolas Livecchi
STARRING:
Johnny Depp, Maïwenn, Benjamin Lavernhe, Pierre Richard, Melvil Poupaud, and Pascal Greggory
RUN TIME:
116 minutes
RATING:
NR
GENRE:
Period Drama
SYNOPSIS:
Jeanne du Barry follows Jeanne Vaubernier (Maïwenn), a working-class woman determined to climb the social ladder, using her charms to escape her impoverished life. Her lover, the Comte du Barry (Melvil Poupaud), wishes to present her to King Louis XV (Johnny Depp) and orchestrates a meeting through the influential Duke of Richelieu (Pierre Richard). The encounter goes far beyond his expectations for it was love at first sight for the King and Jeanne. Through this ravishing courtesan, the king rediscovers his appetite for life and feels he can no longer live without her. Making Jeanne his last official mistress, scandal erupts as no one at Court will accept a girl from the streets into their rarified world.
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