The King Is Dancing
The King Is Dancing

The King Is Dancing

2000Movie115 minFrench

Louis XIV, the French sun-king has two passions, establishing absolute rule over the realm -after decades of religious/civil wars- by divine right and artistic brilliancy as a dancer

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IMDb6.7/10
Director: Gérard CorbiauGenres: Biography, Drama, History, Music

Plot Summary

The film chronicles the life of Jean-Baptiste Lully, a talented Italian musician who rose from humble beginnings to become the favored composer of King Louis XIV of France. It depicts his complex relationship with the Sun King, his artistic triumphs, and the rivalries and intrigues he faced within the opulent court of Versailles. Lully's ambition and genius are put to the test as he navigates the treacherous waters of power and artistry.

Critical Reception

The King Is Dancing received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its lavish production design, period detail, and compelling performances, particularly Benoît Magimel as Lully. The film was commended for its engaging portrayal of a historical figure and the intricate world of 17th-century French court music. While some found the pacing occasionally slow, the overall sentiment was that of a well-crafted historical drama with a captivating central performance.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its beautiful cinematography and authentic period detail.
  • Benoît Magimel's performance as Lully was widely lauded.
  • Offers an engaging, albeit dramatized, look into the life of a pivotal Baroque composer.

Google audience: Information regarding Google user reviews and ratings for 'The King Is Dancing' is not readily available.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Golden Globe Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

Fun Fact

The film features authentic period instruments and musical scores, meticulously recreated to reflect the soundscape of Louis XIV's court.

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