Marie Antoinette

Starring: Kirsten Dunst, Jason Schwartzman, Judy Davis, Rip Torn, Rose Byrne, Asia Argento, Molly Shannon
Directed by: Sofia Coppola
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Drama
2006

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: Marie Antoinette (Kirsten Dunst) lives a life of luxury, which alienates all those around her, including the people of France.

Review:

Tim: Many people disliked this movie for various reasons. They caught a lot of slack for not "understanding" what the movie was supposed to be all about. I feel like I do understand exactly what this movie was trying to achieve. I understand the intent, and I still thought it was a disappointment.

Yes, I do give the movie credit for showing the life of Marie Antoinette in a vivid, lively view. This is not the stuffy, "boring" history of famous figures in books. The titular queen really comes to life here. That is quite an achievement. I appreciate Sophia Coppola's effort here.

The reason this movie is disappointing is because it just doesn't matter. Everything we see is interesting and very often deserves our attention, but it ultimately adds up to nothing. The film ends, and we aren't necessarily any better for it. Do we have a better understanding and appreciation of Marie Antoinette as a person? Maybe.

Kirsten Dunst is generally decent in her role. She brings a certain amount of energy, but doesn't really capture the role quite as well as she could have. Jason Schwartzman gives an odd and generally ridiculous performance. I understand that Louis XVI was a weird guy, but Schwartzman was just not enjoyable in his role.

Marie Antoinette is very often boring, silly, and ultimately pointless. The film needed an infusion of heart, but, as this movie is lacking that, just pass this one by.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 4.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Lost in Translation, Elizabethtown, Mona Lisa Smile