The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc (1999)

Introduction
"The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc" is a 1999 historic drama movie directed by Luc Besson. The film retells the story of Joan of Arc, the French heroine who led the French army versus the British in the Hundred Years' War, just to be burned as a heretic. Milla Jovovich stars as Joan, while John Malkovich, Faye Dunaway, and Dustin Hoffman round up the assistance cast. The motion picture intertwines historic realities with components of dramatic fiction and spiritual questions.

The Plot
The film begins with young Joan (Jovovich), whose sister is killed by English soldiers. This event imparts in her a deep hatred for the English and marks the start of her religious visions, which she claims are messages from God. Joan is revealed to be deeply spiritual and believes with unshakeable faith that she is picked by God to expel the English occupation from the French territory.

Years later on, with her religious fervor unquenched and her desire for revenge still intense, Joan encourages the uncrowned King Charles VII (Malkovich) to give her command of the French army. With her leadership, the French capture the city of Orléans, a substantial triumph that allows Charles VII to recover his throne, making Joan the "Maid of Orléans".

Decline and Trial
Following her achievement in Orléans, Joan, motivated by her visions, leads the French army into another significant battle in Paris. Nevertheless, her persistence on battling without sufficient preparation leads to a squashing defeat and her ensuing capture by the English. Charles VII, unwilling to risk his newly acquired throne, does not ransom Joan and she is brought for trial.

In a painful trial led by the English and the corrupt Bishop Cauchon (Davidson), she is accused of heresy. Dustin Hoffman plays the function of Joan's conscience during her trial, questioning her faith, her right to eliminate in the name of God, and the authenticity of her visions.

Joan's Martyrdom
In spite of the torment and humiliating trial, Joan refuses to denounce her visions or recant her faith. Bold till the very end, she is sentenced to death and burned at the stake, becoming a martyr for her cause. Her life, sacrifices, and unbreakable faith are honored, and several decades later she is canonized and declared a saint by the Catholic Church.

Conclusion
"The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc" represents Joan's life, her leadership in the French military, her trial, and execution. Besson's movie doesn't avoid revealing the cruelty of the period or the depth of Joan's spiritual dedication, offering a visual phenomenon that merges realism with spiritual query. It stands out for daring to question the nature of Joan's visions critically, making it a thought-provoking exploration of one female's steadfast faith and nerve amidst betrayal and misfortune. Regardless of its mournful ending, Joan's heroism, resilience, and undying faith make her a beacon of hope and motivation.

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