Maïwenn's highly anticipated Jeanne du Barry, starring Johnny Depp, marked the opening of the 76th Cannes Film Festival and had its world premiere on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at the Grand Théâtre Lumière in the Palais des Festivals in Cannes. The film was released in French cinemas the same day.
In Jeanne du Barry, director Maïwenn herself plays the eponymous heroine alongside Johnny Depp, Benjamin Lavernhe, Melvil Poupaud, Pierre Richard, Pascal Greggory and India Hair. The film traces the life, rise and fall of the favorite of King Louis XV, Jeanne Vaubernier. Coming from the people and eager to rise socially, Jeanne Vaubernier uses her charms to improve her condition. Thanks to her lover, the Count du Barry, and the influential Duke of Richelieu, she managed to meet the king. The love at first sight is immediate between Louis XV and Jeanne, to the point that he appoints her as his official favorite, causing a scandal at the Court.
After a dull introductory sequence that augured the worst for this highly ambitious period film, Maïwenn deploys a rather ingenious device! One could expect much worse, but the filmmaker makes the best of the story of the scandalous love affairs of King Louis XV and his favorite, the Countess du Barry. As a period film, Maïwenn moves away from her very contemporary style (Polisse, ADN, etc.) to ape a Barry Lindon-style direction, with voice-overs and refined classicism.
However, this stilted daily routine is shattered when Jeanne du Barry arrives at the Court. The young woman, libertine and obeying no rules, catches the eye of the King. The feminist symbolism is a bit forced, but the subject suits Maïwenn, who has admitted to recognizing herself in du Barry. We can see what she liked in this character. Impossible for her to adapt to the ridiculous ceremonial of the Court, it is the Court that must adapt to her!
From then on, the film surprises by becoming a comedy, when the absurd daily life of the tenants of the Palace of Versailles is shown on the screen. Above all, it is a true film of actors. The main duo, Maïwenn and Johnny Depp, are obviously striking. Both are in the spotlight for reasons that have nothing to do with movies, and we never thought we'd see them receive so many honors. Still, their performance is striking. For the first time in his career, Depp plays a role in French. And for a first, he does it wonderfully. His language is impeccable. Not very talkative, the actor is magnetic, and his presence alone reveals a charisma that is beyond reproach. In each scene where Depp is present, he vampirizes the screen.
Jeanne du Barry assumes his excesses, but often lacks subtlety. Fortunately, it gains in intensity throughout its comfortable two hours. This beautiful build-up leads to a flamboyant and moving final climax.
May 2024 cinema releases: list of films in cinemas and opening times near you
"In May, do as you please", and if you feel like going to the movies, check out our selection of the best films coming out in May 2024. Whether it's a horror film, a romantic comedy or an action thriller, there's sure to be a movie to thrill you this month! [Read more]
Not sure which film to see today? Well, we've got plenty of films to show near you. [Read more]
May 2024 cinema releases: list of films in cinemas and opening times near you
Cinema: which film to see today, this Wednesday May 8th, 2024?
