Episode 5-Farewell, My Queen

Wigs and Candles

Did you ever wonder what it must have been like for Marie Antoinette when the riots of the French Revolution started to heat up the mood in the country? Did you ever wonder what it must have been like to be in the Versaille Palace and witness the uncertainty among the royals on the verge of free-fall? What happened behind those walls? How did those days pass for those living inside?

In the film “Les Adieux a la Reine” or “Farewell, My Queen” you get a good glimpse at this fascinating chapter of history through the eyes of a servant, giving a full new perspective to the story.

And this is the topic of our new episode: we review the movie not only focusing on the cast, the main characters, and the stunning production around it but also on how much a film and a story can be modified by the personal touches of the director.

We go into a discussion about clichés, men directing female characters, the necessity of nudity, and rumours from the past.

***Spoiler alert! While reviewing this film we go through key scenes and may reveal the ending, so be warned of spoilers!***

Additional music

Concerto for 2 Cellos in G minor, RV 531
The Modena Chamber Orchestra

Sources & further links

Marie Antoinette, by Antonia Fraser
https://www.amazon.de/Marie-Antoinette-Journey-Antonia-Fraser/dp/038548948X

Berlinale Press conference
https://www.berlinale.de/de/archiv/jahresarchive/2012/02_programm_2012/02_filmdatenblatt_2012_20123500.html#tab=filmStills