DbcultAccessing Vault...
4.1/10
Archivist John
Senior Editor
A definitive 4.1/10 rating for a film that redefined the boundaries of cult cinema. A Modern Du Barry remains a cornerstone of transgressive art.
Short answer: yes, but it’s not without its flaws. This 1920s drama, directed by Josef von Sternberg and starring Marlene Dietrich, offers a glimpse into a bygone era, but its sometimes uneven pacing and melodramatic tone might test modern sensibilities.
A Modern Du Barry is a film that speaks to a specific era, one of silent films transitioning to sound, and the opulence of the early 1920s. It’s a must-watch for fans of classic cinema, particularly those interested in the works of Josef von Sternberg and Marlene Dietrich. It’s not for everyone, especially those who prefer contemporary cinema with more complex narratives and character development.
This film works because... Marlene Dietrich's performance as Toinette is a standout, bringing depth and nuance to a character who navigates the treacherous waters of court life with grace and wit. The film's visual style, influenced by von Sternberg's signature aesthetic, is a feast for the eyes, with elaborate costumes and sets that transport the viewer to a bygone era.
This film fails because... The film's pacing can feel uneven, with moments of melodrama that might be overwhelming for modern audiences. The plot's reliance on romance and political intrigue sometimes feels formulaic and predictable, detracting from the overall impact.
You should watch it if... You are a fan of classic cinema, particularly works from Josef von Sternberg and Marlene Dietrich. This film is a testament to the era of silent films transitioning to sound and offers a glimpse into the opulent and sometimes treacherous world of early 20th-century France.
Marlene Dietrich's performance as Toinette is a highlight of the film. Her ability to convey a character's complexity through subtle expressions and gestures is a testament to her acting prowess. Toinette is a shop girl who rises to become a royal favorite, and Dietrich brings a sense of realism to the character, making her journey believable and engaging. Her chemistry with other actors, particularly Lotte Lorring, adds depth to the film's interpersonal dynamics.
However, the supporting cast is somewhat underutilized. Characters like Raimund Gessner and Julia Serda have moments of charm, but their roles feel somewhat peripheral to the main narrative. This imbalance can sometimes detract from the film's overall impact.
Josef von Sternberg's direction is a key element of the film's appeal. His signature style, which includes striking visuals and a focus on elegance and form, is evident throughout A Modern Du Barry. The film's use of lighting and composition is a hallmark of Sternberg's work, creating a visual language that is both striking and evocative of the era.
However, the film's reliance on melodrama and romantic entanglements can sometimes feel dated. While Sternberg's direction is visually stunning, the film's narrative sometimes feels overly reliant on these elements, which can make for a somewhat predictable viewing experience.
The cinematography by Eugen Burger is a highlight of the film. The use of rich, saturated colors and elaborate costumes creates a sense of opulence and beauty that is both visually striking and evocative of the era. The film's attention to detail in set design and costume is a testament to the craftsmanship of the production, making the film feel like a period piece that is both authentic and visually impressive.
However, the film's reliance on static shots and slow pacing can sometimes make the viewing experience feel less engaging. While the film's visuals are impressive, the sometimes slow pace can make it feel less dynamic and less engaging than a more modern film might.
The film's pacing can feel uneven at times, with moments of melodrama and political intrigue that might be overwhelming for modern audiences. The film's reliance on these elements can sometimes detract from the overall narrative, making the film feel less cohesive and less engaging.
However, the film's tonal shifts are a testament to the era it represents. The film's blend of romance, politics, and social commentary offers a glimpse into a bygone era, and its sometimes melodramatic tone is a reflection of the era's sensibilities.
A Modern Du Barry is a film that is worth watching for fans of classic cinema, particularly those interested in the works of Josef von Sternberg and Marlene Dietrich. Its visual style and performances are a testament to the era it represents, and its blend of romance, politics, and social commentary offers a glimpse into a bygone era. However, it's not for everyone, particularly those who prefer contemporary cinema with more complex narratives and character development.
A Modern Du Barry is a film that is worth watching for fans of classic cinema, particularly those interested in the works of Josef von Sternberg and Marlene Dietrich. Its visual style and performances are a testament to the era it represents, and its blend of romance, politics, and social commentary offers a glimpse into a bygone era. While it may not be for everyone, it is a film that offers a unique perspective on a bygone era and is a testament to the craftsmanship of the era's filmmakers.
IMDb —
1916
Community
Log in to comment.
Loading comments…
