Beatrice (1987)

Beatrice Poster
Original Title: La Passion Béatrice

Somewhere in France during the Middle Ages. Béatrice is impatient to see her father return from English captivity. She doesn't expect however that the father whom she loves from distance will be the most hateful person who will submit her and her family to abuse and humiliation.

Introduction
"Beatrice" is an emotionally charged, medieval-themed film directed by Bertrand Tavernier in 1987. It stars Julie Delpy as Beatrice, Bernard-Pierre Donnadieu as her father, François, and Monique Chaumette as her mom. The movie is a French adjustment of a real-life story, composed by Csaba Káel (based upon the novel by Hervé Bazin), depicting the love-hate relationship of a father-daughter duo in a dark, oppressive creating family.

Plot
The movie opens in the 14th century with François, a blacksmith and lord of his manor, bringing up his children after the death of his partner from the pester. The feared yet respected François is edgy and violent, particularly towards his child Beatrice. As a teen, Beatrice faces harassment and abuse from her dad physically, psychologically, and sexually. The daddy's intents are to keep the bloodline clean, and forbid Beatrice from marrying anyone outside their lineage.

Development of Beatrice
Throughout the movie, Beatrice and her daddy's relationship continues to be filled with intensity, animosity, and forbidden tourist attraction. Beatrice develops from an innocent child to a rebellious teenager, then a resigned girl, and finally a cruel queen. Amidst the suffering, Beatrice discovers solace in Agnes, a lady working in their home whose generosity shines through the darkness. She likewise finds a confidante in her brother, who tries to protect her from their father.

Twist of Fate
Beatrice's life takes a turn when she becomes pregnant as an outcome of her father's abuse, and François, delirious over his principle of purity, is encouraged that the kid is his reincarnation. However, Beatrice has her own vision of justice. The movie reaches its climax when Beatrice, in a state of wrath and revenge, eliminates her father, getting control over the household.

Styles and Reception
At its core, "Beatrice" goes over power, gender functions, and violence in a medieval setting. The characters mirror the societal standards common during the era, offering a grim portrayal of misogyny. The film's graphic narration of sexual assault and violence evoked mixed reactions from the audience and critics. Some applauded it for its bold storytelling, while others slammed it for its explicit content. Shines with remarkable performances by Delpy and Donnadieu, and perfectly recorded scenes that contrast with the underlying cruelty of the narrative.

Conclusion
"Beatrice" is a tragic, extreme drama that shows the painful experiences of a woman born into depravity and oppression, yet handles to become an effective figure. Despite the fact that set in the 14th century, the movie's styles shockingly resonate with modern-day concerns such as patriarchal supremacy, misogyny, and sexual assault. The strong acting efficiencies and thought-provoking styles had actually made this movie significant and haunting.

Top Cast

  • Julie Delpy (small)
    Julie Delpy
    Béatrice de Cortemart
  • Bernard-Pierre Donnadieu (small)
    Bernard-Pierre Donnadieu
    François de Cortemart
  • Monique Chaumette (small)
    Monique Chaumette
    Mother François
  • Robert Dhéry (small)
    Robert Dhéry
    Raoul
  • Michèle Gleizer (small)
    Michèle Gleizer
    Hélène
  • Maxime Leroux (small)
    Maxime Leroux
    Richard
  • Jean-Claude Adelin (small)
    Jean-Claude Adelin
    Bertrand Lemartin
  • Jean-Louis Grinfeld
    Maître Blanche
  • Claude Duneton (small)
    Claude Duneton
    Vicar
  • Isabelle Nanty (small)
    Isabelle Nanty
    Childminder
  • Jean-Luc Rivals
    Jehan