MOVIE REVIEW
Widow Clicquot
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 29m
Director(s): Thomas Napper
Writer(s): Erin Dignam
Cast: Haley Bennett, Tom Sturridge, Sam Riley, Anson Boon, Leo Suter, Paul Rhys, Natasha O’Keeffe, Ben Miles
Where To Watch: in select theaters July 19, 2024
RAVING REVIEW: WIDOW CLICQUOT offers viewers a vivid exploration of ambition and resilience, painting a stirring portrait of Madame Clicquot's (Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin) revolutionary journey through the vineyards of history. With Thomas Napper directing and Haley Bennett delivering a powerhouse performance, this film not only looks back at history—it revives it, bringing to light the saga of a woman who transformed a fledgling enterprise into an empire.
WIDOW CLICQUOT engages viewers with its narrative depth. The story unfolds with Barbe-Nicole, a 20-year-old, entering into an arranged marriage with François Clicquot (Tom Sturridge,) a visionary heir to a winemaking dynasty. What begins as an alliance of convenience blossoms into a genuine partnership, fueling the fire of their shared ambitions. Upon François' unexpected demise, Barbe-Nicole finds herself at the helm of a male-dominated industry, where her resilience and insight are tested. Bennett’s portrayal of Barbe-Nicole is captivating, bringing layers of grit and grace to a role that demands both.
The film's narrative is punctuated with flashbacks that intertwine Barbe-Nicole's past and present, illustrating her evolution and enduring love for François. This non-linear approach enriches the storyline, offering audiences a glimpse into the foundational moments that shaped her path. The thematic exploration of Barbe-Nicole's fight against the restrictive Napoleonic Codes adds intensity and a layer of drama, highlighting her defiance against the societal norms that sought to confine her ambitions.
Caroline Champetier’s cinematography captures the lush French countryside's essence and the Clicquot estate's intimate corners with an eye for elegance and authenticity. Complementing these visuals, Bryce Dessner's score mirrors the film's emotional landscape, with auditory cues that shift from contemplative to triumphant, mirroring Barbe-Nicole’s tumultuous journey.
Despite its ambitious scope, the film manages its complex structure well, though it occasionally challenges the viewer to keep pace with its shifting timelines. It effectively portrays the cyclical challenges Barbe-Nicole faces, from the vineyard’s production to the broader economic tumults of the era. Each setback is met with renewed vigor, a testament to her tenacious spirit.
Barbe-Nicole's character is a beacon of complexity, portrayed as both a widow and a warrior, a mother and a mogul. Her dynamic with her daughter Clementine (Cecily Cleeve) and her ally Louis Bohne (Sam Riley) empowers the narrative, depicting a woman capable of both tenderness and strength. Their interactions underscore the strategic alliances and emotional bonds that propel her forward.
The film also excels in its dedication to accuracy; from the period-appropriate costumes to the meticulous set designs, each frame of WIDOW CLICQUOT offers a window into the past. Yet, it doesn’t merely showcase history—it challenges it, addressing women's obstacles and the resilience required to overcome them.
WIDOW CLICQUOT celebrates the enduring spirit and innovative legacy. It resonates with anyone who appreciates the blend of historical depth and personal drama, anchored by a profound and inspiring performance from Haley Bennett. This film is not just a history lesson but a beacon of inspiration, showing how one woman’s courage can change the world.
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[photo courtesy of FOURTH & TWENTY EIGHT FILMS, WME INDEPENDENT, VERTICAL ENTERTAINMENT]
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