Joan of Arc
Joan of Arc

Movie spotlight

Joan of Arc

2019
Movie
137 min
French

In the 15th century, both France and England stake a blood claim for the French throne. Believing that God had chosen her, young Joan leads the army of the King of France. When she is captured, the Church sends her for trial on charges of heresy. Refusing to accept the accusations, the graceful Joan will stay true to her mission.

Insights

IMDb5.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes73%
Metacritic65/100
Google Users65%
Director: Bruno DumontGenres: Drama, History, War

Plot Summary

This French historical drama reimagines the life of Joan of Arc, focusing on her religious visions and military leadership during the Hundred Years' War. The film delves into her unwavering faith and her eventual trial and execution. It portrays her as a complex figure caught between divine calling and earthly conflict. The narrative culminates in her powerful confrontation with her accusers and her ultimate martyrdom.

Critical Reception

Bruno Dumont's 'Joan of Arc' received mixed to positive reviews, with many critics praising its distinctive visual style and Lise Leplat's compelling performance as the titular character. Some found the film's pacing and minimalist approach challenging, while others lauded its unique interpretation of a historical epic. The film was recognized for its artistic merit, though it divided audiences on its deliberate, often stark, portrayal.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its striking visual aesthetic and Lise Leplat's central performance.

  • Criticized by some for its slow pace and unconventional narrative structure.

  • Appreciated for its artistic and spiritual interpretation of the historical figure.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally highlight the film's artistic ambition and its unique, often austere, visual presentation. Many found Lise Leplat's portrayal of Joan to be a strong point, though some viewers expressed that the film's deliberate pacing and thematic focus made it less accessible.

Fun Fact

Director Bruno Dumont chose to shoot the film in stark, naturalistic settings, eschewing traditional epic cinematic grandeur to emphasize Joan's spiritual journey and the harsh realities of her time.

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