Previously unknown to most, Chevalier tells the true story of a remarkable Renaissance man whose racial background clashes with his ambitions at a significant point in history.
Set in Paris, France, in the years preceding the French Revolution, young Joseph Bologne (Kelvin Harrison, Jr.), a proud man full of self-confidence and bravado, is biracial and possesses excellent skills as a composer, violin virtuoso, expert fencer, poet, and more while bestowed the title of Chevalier courtesy of his friendship with Queen Marie Antoinette (Lucy Boynton). Yet for all his impressive abilities and despite being popular in elite circles and captivating to women, he faces the cruel backlash of racism and political upheaval as rebellion builds in the streets. When he is reunited with his black mother after many years apart, he learns to embrace his heritage and sets out to become director of the Paris Opera by composing an original opera starring Marie-Josephine (Samara Weaving) a married, progressive-minded woman. When the two are drawn closer to each other, the repercussions threaten to undo everything they have worked to achieve amid a country falling into the fervor of revolution.
The story focuses on love and betrayal amid historic upheaval, and with this lesser known story, the narrative builds audience engagement and suspense. What impresses are the period recreations in lush costumes amid authentic set designs and effective scenes such as an opening violin duel between Bologne and Mozart.
Harrison
is quite good with a solid supporting cast; you get the feeling that with a stronger,
name cast, this could have made a bigger film experience. It remains a good
story that reveals some fascinating events that draw you in accompanied by some
societal allegories. With a telling postscript,
this film delivers a compelling, untold story.
***1/2
of **** stars (for fans of period drama)
No comments:
Post a Comment