#CANNES: “JEANNE DU BARRY” REVIEW

By Amanda Gilmore

Cannes ’23 opening night film tells the true story of Jeanne Bécu (Maïwenn). Jeanne was born as the illegitimate daughter of an impoverished seamstress in 1743. As she grew up, and got kicked out of the convent she was forced into, she had two choices — work as a maid like her mother or become a courtesan. She choose the latter as she believed that was a way to live her fullest life. It was that life that lead her to become a mistress to King Louis XV (Johnny Depp). Becoming his favourite but hated among the court.

Maïwenn, who in addition to acting as directs and co-writes, brings us into the Age of Enlightenment in Versailles. Maïwenn shot the Film on location at the Château de Versailles when it was closed to the public on Mondays. From the moment Jeanne steps into the Palace, wealth drips from every angel. The King even gifts her a decadent diamond necklace following their first night.

Many Period Films lose focus on their subject. Especially when another character is more known in history books. Thankfully, Maïwenn doesn’t divert from telling Jeanne’s story. It’s a sad story to watch. She has only two choices due to her class within society, but also due to being a woman. Jeanne Du Barry is really a story about a woman locked inside society’s cage. Yet, Jeanne never loses her light. She had an exuberant personality that Maïwenn embodies. She perfectly captures the daring Jeanne and allows her light to shine through even in the dark.

Learning about this woman who rose the ranks within society is enthralling. Yet, a shorter run time may pack a harder punch. There are recurring moments that only needed to be included twice at most (like the King’s daughters finding ways to embarrass and hurt Jeanne).

Although Jeanne’s life story was challenging, Maïwenn and her co-writers find levity. This is shown through Jeanne’s zest for life and in the relationship she shares with the King. There’s even a recurring gag that runs throughout revolving around how one should never turn their back to the King but rather bounce backwards. The Film highlights the relationship they shared and how the King went against his family to have her at his side. Depp and Maïwenn have good chemistry that helps aid in the romantic storyline.

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Jeanne Du Barry screens at Cannes ’23:

Tue May 16 at 7PM at GRAND THÉÂTRE LUMIÈRE

Tue May 16 at 11:30PM at GRAND THÉÂTRE LUMIÈRE

Wed May 17 at 9AM at GRAND THÉÂTRE LUMIÈRE

Wed May 17 at 12PM at GRAND THÉÂTRE LUMIÈRE

Thu May 18 at 10AM at CINEUM IMAX

Thu May 18 at 4:30PM at LICORNE