Beatrice (1988)
Director: Bertrand Tavernier
Starring: Bernard-Pierre Donnadieu, Julie
Delpy
set during the Hundred Year's War
When many think of the Medieval Ages, they think of noble knights and chivalry. But not Bertrand Tavernier, the director of this film. He sees this time as one of the tyranny of the fortunate few, of incest, murder and obsession.
Beatrice longs for the return of her father, who is held prisoner in England. She romanticizes the future when she will be the princess of the castle. But when her father actually returns, he is not the man Beatrice imagined him to be. Instead he is a man greatly disillusioned by war and now out for only his own self-interests. Even Beatrice is not save from her father, who takes a sexual interest in her.
She seeks protection from her father from others, such as the priest. But these offer no protection for the Beatrice. So she has to turn to a witch and witchcraft.
The film is an effective antidote to any romanticizing of the Dark Ages and brings us closer to reality. Dr. Patrick L. Cooney.
Historical Background:
The Hundred Year's War between England and France (1337-1453)
See The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc (1999)
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