Directed by Maïwenn
Starring Maïwenn, Johnny Depp, Benjamin Lavernhe, and Melvil Poupaud

By now, we are well accustomed to Hollywood actor Johnny Depp portraying unique characters (The titular character in 5-star classic Edward Scissorhands) and applying his unique influence (for better or for worse) to certain characters (Willy Wonka in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean film series). Now, Johnny Depp fills a unique role, even for him, impressively speaking entirely in French portraying the Versailles-sitting and Vichy water-drinking King Louis XV of France!

His occupancy in such a role might sound like a Golden Raspberry nomination in waiting to some. However, this brave offer by director Maïwenn, whose passion project this is, and Depp’s decision to accept and fully commit as he does, elicits some of the best work we’ve seen from him in a decade.

Jeanne du Barry begins by chronicling the early and formative years of Jeanne Vaubernier (acted by co-writer and director Maïwenn) in 1700s France, as she finds her way from impoverished foundations to securing residence as King Louis XV’s lover/mistress in Versailles. When Jeanne first formally meets with King Louis XV, she learns he is quite bored by the same daily routines that rule his existence and doesn’t necessarily take his royal role quite as seriously as an outsider would expect. This, his well-documented infidelity, and Jeanne’s working-class status, ruffle the feathers of his 4 perpetually outraged daughters. Needless to say, they do not acknowledge let alone approve of Jeanne’s existence among their family and will stop at nothing to ensure her days in Versailles are numbered.

It is evident from early into this period drama that director and star Maïwenn has worked overtime and tirelessly in bringing this story, its characters, and the production to life. Though its script and storytelling does have its shortcomings, the Oscar-worthy ® production values of Jeanne du Barry make it a stunning spectacle to survey. Costume design, hair & make-up, and locations (including partial filming at the real Versailles) are lavishly detailed and world-class. Due to Versailles’ very limited filming opportunities, production and set designs had to be created to film many scenes that took place there, but you wouldn’t pick the difference. These, as well as being beautifully shot on 35mm film cameras, capture and maintain a resounding grandness to the production that are victorious. Where this film isn’t as victorious is in its second half. The story forms a tendency to lean more heavily than it ought to on its narration to clarify and further elaborate on what movie could and should be doing without this. As a result, it can occasionally feel as though the story is lacking some direction. Also, not all attempts to infuse the film with humour quite pay off in my view. The characterisation of King Louis XV’s 4 daughters and the actress’ performances (especially India Hair) are too caricature. That said, the story’s focus never shifts far from its three most likeable and intriguing characters; King Louis XV, his loyal Valet de chambre La Borde (a brilliant performance from Benjamin Lavernhe), and our titular character. In doing so, Jeanne du Barry is always entertaining. 

Jeanne du Barry is showing in selected cinemas across Australia from April 18th.

Moviedoc thanks Palace Films and The Backlot Studios for the invitation to the screening of this film.

Review by Leigh for Moviedoc

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