The Duchess of Langeais

views updated

The Duchess of Langeais ★★★ Ne Touchez pas la Hache; Don't Touch the Axe 2007

Set in 1820s Paris during the Restoration. The Duchess of Langeais, Antoinette (Balibar), is pursued by general Armand de Montri-veau (Guillaume Depardieu—Gerard's son) who falls for her at first sight. She's a smart socialite, schooled in the ways of high living—he's a handsome Napoleonic war hero with stories of bravery. Although married, she's flattered by his attentions and engages him in a skillful game of cat and mouse. Montriveau eventually is angered by her game and attempts to exact his revenge, which finally peaks Antoinette's interest—except now it may be too late. The politics of the period are palpable as the social constraints of the would-be lovers stand sentinel to their unrequited love. Gorgeous settings and painful formalities heighten the cruel irony of the ill-fated lovers, and it's oh-so-enticing to watch. 137m/C DVD . FR IT Jeanne Balibar, Guill-aume Depardieu, Bulle Ogier, Michel Piccoli, Bar-bet Schroeder; D: Jacques Rivette; W: Jacques Rivette, Pascal Bonitzer, Christian Laurent; C: William Lubtchansky; M: Pierre Allio.