Marie Antoinette (2006)

O An excellent must-see
O Good rental choice
X Mediocre
O Rent something else

Review by Jason Pyles / April 10, 2007

"Marie Antoinette" is not overly entertaining, though it’s sometimes endearing.

In the 18th century (circa 1768), Marie Antoinette (Kirsten Dunst) of Austria is betrothed to Louis XVI, the future king of France — a marriage designed to maintain the friendly alliance between the two countries.

The plot of "Marie Antoinette" is simply a depiction of the legendary life of an unfortunate queen. For instance, we see the immense pressure to produce an heir to the throne. We also see a young lady’s playful disposition squeezed into the rigid formality of royalty. And we hear the frightening mobs of discontented France storming the monarchs’ palace in Versailles. And really, that’s about it.

The costumes in this movie are incredible — as are the sets — making "Marie Antoinette" a glamorized period piece. But the spell is broken by the pop music of the soundtrack, much like we heard in "A Knight's Tale" (2001).

Writer and director Sofia Coppola (yes, the daughter of Francis) allows her movie fall prey to flawed storytelling: Initially, it’s repetitive, next the narrative becomes sparse, and then it cheats us with its unsatisfactory ending.

“Marie Antoinette” isn’t a bad movie, but I wouldn’t say it’s fit for a queen.

Directed by Sophia Coppola
Kirsten Dunst / Jason Schwartzman / Steve Coogan
123 min. Drama
(Original MPAA rating: PG-13)
Edited version age recommendation: 12 and up

DVD release date: February 13, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0075 : 199