Five of My Favorite French Revolution Films

The French Revolution has been the subject of film since the dawn of motion pictures; naturally then, it should come as no surprise that there are countless films about the revolution and its players--nor should it surprise you that the revolution continues to fascinate filmmakers today!

I compiled 5 of my current favorite films set in the French Revolution, which I've shared below.

Note: The 5 films chosen for this list are available in English or with official English subtitles, hence the exclusion of certain famous titles, such as La Revolution Francaise (1989). If you're looking for more 'Marie Antoinette' films, check out my other list!

 

L'Anglaise et le Duc (2001)

Inspired by the embroidered memoirs of Grace Elliot, the Scottish mistress to the duc d'Orleans, who was caught up in the turmoil of the French Revolution. Grace and Orleans' relationship is played against the backdrop of the Paris during the Terror, where political loyalties--including those of the royalist Grace--can become a life or death matter. 

Danton (1983)

A downfall of Danton, adapted from a play by director Andrzej Wajda, whose decision to draw parallels through then-contemporary Polish events and the conflict between Danton and Robespierre makes for an intense--if polarized--look at the ultimate fate of some of the revolution's major players. Gerard Depardieu gives a particularly stand-out performance as Danton.

 Les adieux à la reine (2012)

Les adieux à la reine, based on a novel by Chantal Thomas, has a micro-focus that sets it apart from the more typical revolution films that span years. The story follows Sidonie, a young reader to Marie Antoinette, as she navigates the tension, panic and confusion of the palace over a several day period--before, during and after the fall of Bastille. (I have more thoughts on the film, particularly how it differs from the novel, here.)

 Orphans of the Storm (1921)

 A melodramatic but undeniably entertaining silent film about two sisters, Louise and Henriette, who travel to 1780s Paris and find themselves prey to political turmoil, poverty, the attentions of a violent aristocrat, and a revolution that threatens to divide the sisters forever. The story is based on a play which had already been adapted into film two times before 1921!

La Marseillaise (1938)

A sweeping epic from Jean Renoir that threads together the many stories of the French Revolution--from arguments in the boudoir of the king and queen to political speeches that helped turn the tide of history to the lives of the people who took to the streets of Paris and Versailles during the early years of the revolution. 

 

8 Films for 18th-Century Devotees

There are countless films set in the 18th century--some of them even date as far back as the (very) late 19th century! The 18th century was a time of great social change and upheaval, of great personalities and dramatic lives; in short, it is a goldmine of storytelling for filmmakers.

It would be impossible to list every worthwhile film set in the 1700s, but I've compiled a short list of 8 films set in 18th century Europe that I find particularly exceptional. If you've noticed a lack of Marie Antoinette or French Revolution films on the list, don't worry: I have a separate list for Marie Antoinette related films and am currently working on a list for films set during the Revolution.

 

 Barry Lyndon (1975)

Often described as one of Stanley Kubrick's finest films, Barry Lyndon (based on a novel by William Thackeray) tells the story of an Irish adventurer who finds himself in the midst of the British aristocracy after seducing a wealthy widow. The film's exquisite attention to production detail, which include specially designed cameras that allowed the production team to use mostly natural lighting and candle light, make it a true stand-out.

Belle (2013)

A fictionalized version of the real life of Dido Elizabeth Belle, the daughter of Sir John Lindsay, a British naval officer and Maria Belle, an enslaved woman. The film juxtaposes Belle's struggle to find her place in society with the infamous Zong "cargo" case. An exceptional performance by Gugu Mbatha-Raw made Belle one of the best films of the year.

Dangerous Liasons (1988) 

This rich adaptation of Les Liaisons dangereuses is impossible to resist: gorgeous costumes, stunning interiors, and just the right amount of luscious scandal mark it as one of the best adaptations of the novel, and one of the best 18th century period films currently out there. Glenn Close's performance is especially notable--and if you're a fan of Coppola's 'Marie Antoinette,' take note of the parallels between Liasons' infamous opera scene and Coppola's own film. 

 

The Duchess (2008) 

The Duchess of Devonshire was the "it" girl of British society in her day, and while The Duchess has some occasional pacing issues, it is one of the better biographical period films in recent memory. Kiera Knightley gives a great performance as the titular Duchess who, despite the limitations of life for women in Georgian England, strives to make her own mark on society.

 Casanova (2005) 

Heath Ledger stars as the titular Casanova in this fun, adventurous and romantic take on the life of Casanova. A fun adventurous film, lovely costumes, a heartfelt storyline and some surprising performances in supporting roles (Jeremy Irons, anyone?) are what make Casanova a memorable and worthwhile watch.

Ridicule (1996) 

In Ridicule, a poor French aristocrat must navigate the treacherous, difficult and scandalous world of Versailles in order to petition the King for a special project. Ridicule is a bit on the slower side, but the biting, down-to-Earth take on social corruption at the court of Versailles is a refreshing one.

The Madness of King George (1994) 

A dramatization of the mental afflictions experienced by George III, whose declining mental state and the attempted treatment by his physicians was fed upon by his political enemies. Nigel Hawthorne and Helen Mirren give particularly powerful performances that manage to be charming, witty, regal and even somber. The film covers a unique period in history and should not be missed!

Amadeus (1984)  

Amadeus is a fun, somewhat off the wall and definitely entertaining look at the rise of Amadeus Mozart and the dramatized rivalry between Antonio Salieri, played with relish in the film by F. Murray Abraham. From the rich soundtrack to the outlandish costumes to the antics of the titular Amadeus, the film has something for everyone. Above all, this straight-from-the-80s take on the life of Amadeus will rock your world!