Scandal, seduction, political hanky-panky: This sumptuously designed film, based on a real-life imbroglio that captivated 18th-century France and helped weaken its profligate monarchy, has all the ingredients of a juicy historical romp. But it's bloodless, fussy, and undermined by Hilary Swank's stiff, one-note performance. Paris, 1786: On trial for her part in
l'affaire du collier, which has cast a shadow over the highest levels of French government, including Queen Marie Antoinette (Joely Richardson), disgraced Countess Jeanne de la Motte-Valois (Swank) defiantly tells her story. Born into the aristocratic Valois family, little Jeanne saw her father — w...
Released:
2001
Rated:
R
Length:
116 mins