Originally Published: 2002-08-04

Stunning atmospherics and detailed account of historical events lifts The Lady and the Duke from the overflowing basket of period dramas to a truly memorable experience. French master Eric Rohmer, 81, had painter Jean-Baptiste Marot create 37 canvases based on paintings, illustrations and maps of French Revolution-era Paris, and then had the actors digitally inserted The result is breathtaking.
Based on the memoirs of Grace Elliott, a Scottish lady who bore the Prince of Wales a daughter, the film centres on the woman's life in Paris following her affair with the Duke of Orleans (Jean-Claude Dreyfus), now her greatest friend. The year is 1790, and the city is in the throes of Robespierre. Despite warnings from the Duke, Grace insists on remaining in Paris but when her own head is imperilled she flees to countryside, only to return to great danger. The film focuses on five crucial dates during the Revolution, including the execution of King Louis XVI and death of Elliott's close friends.
Despite its quiet pace and polite language, The Lady and the Duke is remarkably tense as the slightest misstep by any of its characters could easily lead to a beheading.
This is the closest we'll get to fully understanding the events of those volatile and deadly times. Wonderful indeed.

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