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Film Description
It's 1834 and Italian soldier Angelo has escaped his Austrian enemies and fled to rural France where a cholera epidemic sweeps the land. Aided by a beautiful noblewoman he vows to protect her as she searches for her missing husband. As they embark on a thrilling and perilous quest they struggle to contain their growing feelings for each other. A sumptuous epic that was the most expensive French production of its time.
Following the huge critical and commercial success of Cyrano De Bergerac, director Jean-Paul Rappeneau's next project would prove to be the most expensive French film ... more >
Following the huge critical and commercial success of Cyrano De Bergerac, director Jean-Paul Rappeneau's next project would prove to be the most expensive French film of all time. A lush romantic epic based on Jean Giono's acclaimed novel set in 1832, it follows the adventures of an Italian patriot (Olivier Martinez) on his exiled journey from Italy through France, pursued by Austrian assassins. He eventually meets a noblewoman (Juliette Binoche) who gives him shelter, and whom he will meet again on the return journey.
The film is stunningly beautiful; Thierry Arbogast's award-winning cinematography beautifully captures the picturesque landscapes of sun-drenched Provence, particularly in the sweeping tracking shot of Martinez and Binoche galloping through vibrant countryside. The film is also dramatically powerful; a cholera epidemic is ravaging France, and there are many startling moments as characters suddenly drop to the ground in the throes of death. Crows, no longer scared of humans, swoop down and peck at the dying. These grim sequences add a sense of menace to the proceedings, and sharpen what could have been a simple action/adventure. Nominated for 10 French Oscars, this film will appeal to fans of spectacular period drama. < less
