Jeanne du Barry (2023) [Movie review]

“Jeanne du Barry,” directed by and starring Maïwenn in the titular role alongside Johnny Depp as King Louis XV, revisits a figure from the annals of French history whose life story has often been overshadowed by more infamous royal mistresses like Madame de Pompadour. The film sets itself apart by delving into the complex socio-political tapestry of 18th-century France, a period marked by extravagant opulence at court contrasted sharply with dire poverty among the populace. This era, ripe with intrigue and ripe for revolution, provides a rich backdrop for exploring Jeanne’s ascent from modest beginnings to the heights of royal favor at Versailles.

Becoming the Comtesse du Barry

The narrative traces Jeanne Bécu’s transformation from a courtesan to the Comtesse du Barry, emphasizing her strategic navigation of the volatile court politics preceding the French Revolution. Historical dramas often struggle with balancing accuracy with entertainment, but “Jeanne du Barry” commendably manages to breathe life into historical figures without excessive romanticization. The film meticulously portrays her relationships within the court, especially with King Louis XV, against the broader political and social upheavals of the time, which were characterized by increasing discontent with monarchical extravagance.

Du Barry has been done before, but it’s been awhile

Jeanne du Barry’s life has been the subject of various adaptations, from cinema to literature, each reflecting the cultural and social mores of its time. Earlier portrayals often depicted her merely as a decorative adjunct to royal power, focusing on her reputed beauty and charm with little emphasis on her intellect or influence. In contrast, Maïwenn’s portrayal is nuanced, presenting Jeanne as a woman of ambition and agency, a precursor to more modern interpretations of women in history. Films like “Madame Du Barry” (1934) starring Dolores del Río, and “Du Barry Was a Lady” (1943), offered versions of her life steeped in the romantic or comedic elements of their era, sometimes at the expense of historical depth.

Lamenting a film that will go ignored in America

Maïwenn’s Jeanne is a revelation, both vulnerable and calculating, using her intellect and inherent understanding of court dynamics to rise above her initial station. This Jeanne is a far cry from mere historical footnotes, embodying a woman making tangible impacts in a highly restrictive society. Johnny Depp’s King Louis XV is portrayed with a complex mixture of detachment and depth, capturing the ennui of a monarch whose reign saw the seeds of revolution. Their performances, enriched by historical context, provide a more authentic and humanizing portrayal of these historical figures.

Maïwenn has my attention

Maïwenn’s direction shines particularly in how it captures the lavish yet suffocating atmosphere of Versailles. The film’s cinematography contrasts the rustic harshness of Jeanne’s youth with the gilded confines of the palace, using a palette that reflects the transition from the earthy tones of her poverty to the jewel tones of royal life. Such visual storytelling enhances the thematic exploration of visibility and invisibility in spaces dominated by power and privilege.

“Jeanne du Barry” excels in its exploration of power dynamics, particularly in the context of gender. It scrutinizes the limited roles available to women like Jeanne, who, despite their proximity to power, navigated a precarious existence. “Jeanne du Barry” does not shy away from depicting the exploitation inherent in these dynamics but also celebrates Jeanne’s agency in maneuvering through them. This focus is a significant shift from earlier adaptations, which often sidelined the harsh realities of such existences in favor of more sanitized narratives.

A smart biopic for people that typically watch re-releases and MCU movies.

“Jeanne du Barry” contributes significantly to the genre of historical biopics by providing a more rounded, feminist portrayal of a historically significant woman. By focusing on Jeanne’s strategic mind and political influence, the film invites contemporary audiences to rethink common perceptions about historical figures traditionally seen through the lens of their relationships with men. This approach not only makes the film a critical piece of cinema but also a culturally relevant reevaluation of history through modern sensibilities.

Some final thoughts

“Jeanne du Barry” is a compelling reinterpretation of the life of one of history’s overlooked figures. With its strong performances, thoughtful direction, and commitment to portraying the complexity of its characters within their historical context, the film is a significant addition to historical cinema. It challenges and entertains, providing a nuanced look at a tumultuous time and its impact on those who lived through it, making it an essential viewing for those interested in history, cinema, and the interplay between the two.

Jeanne du Barry is now in a few theaters across America.