Wednesday 26 November 2008

Vatel (2000) trailer

If you live in the UK, this weekend sees the screening on tv of this movie starring Gerard Depardieu, Tim Roth and Uma Thurman. I haven't seen it and it's not about military history but more about lavish court entertainment but I mention it as its set in 1671 and just in case you miss it and blame me. Imdb on it says the plot is
In 1671, with war brewing with Holland, a penniless prince invites Louis XIV to three days of festivities at a chateau in Chantilly. The prince wants a commission as a general, so the extravagances are to impress the king. In charge of all is the steward, Vatel, a man of honor, talent, and low birth. The prince is craven in his longing for stature: no task is too menial or dishonorable for him to give Vatel. While Vatel tries to sustain dignity, he finds himself attracted to Anne de Montausier, the king's newest mistress. In Vatel, she finds someone who's authentic, living out his principles within the casual cruelties of court politics. Can the two of them escape unscathed?

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

VATEL is an excellent movie about Louis XIV and it does discuss the origins of the Franco-Dutch war. Unlike a lot of Hollywood type films, it is actually accurate historically. Its depictions of the young Louis XIV and his court are first rate and even his brother Philippe--one of Louis's lieutenant generals in some of his campaigns--is one of the cast of characters. Asides from the historical aspects, the film is a feast for the eye and is really a masterpiece that was overlooked,IMHO.