La Princesse de Clèves (1961)
Directed by Jean Delannoy

Film Review

Princesse de Clèves is a lavish period production based on the 17th century historical novel by Madame de La Fayette.  Set at the court of the ill-fated Henri II, the story concerns mainly an impossible romance between a young duke and a young Princess, although it also brings in wider court intrigue involving other historical figures such as Catherine de Medici.   The script was written by Jean Delannoy and Jean Cocteau, who previously collaborated on the 1943 film L'Eternel retour.  Another connection between these two films is the actor Jean Marais, who starred in both films.

Despite its impressive visual feel, Princesse de Clèves is a film which has some difficulty engaging with its audience.  The grandeur of the film's production values (extravagant sets and costumes)  appears to dilute those less tangible elements which are needed for the film to move its spectator - such as a sense of intimacy and passion.  Whilst the dialogue is beautifully poetic in places, it is not sufficient to convey the impression of an all-consuming love and there is a sense that, in the hands of a younger director, with a stronger cast, this could have been a much more powerful film.  Despite these qualms, the film has much to commend it.  It is competently directed by one of the masters of French cinema, offers a convincing portrayal of the era in which it is set, and features the magnificent Jean Marais in one of his most poignant film roles.

Film Synopsis

France, 1559.  At the request of King Henri II, a magnificent ball is held at the Louvre Palace in honour of the marriage of the noble Prince de Clèves to the beautiful Mademoiselle de Chartres.  It is a splendid occasion and all the royal court are present to offer their blessings to the newly weds.  In the course of the proceedings, the princess finds herself without a dancing partner and finds she must agree to dance with the first man who presents himself to her.  This turns out to be the dashing Duke de Nemours, and as soon as their eyes meet the princess appears troubled by this providential encounter.  They meet again on other public occasions and it isn't long before the princess has acquired a fond attachment for her handsome admirer.

The Duke is not slow to realise the princess's feelings for him and, as they continue to meet, always in public, he makes every attempt to persuade her to become his lover.  The Princess de Clèves soon finds herself with a terrible dilemma, for whilst she is strongly attracted to the Duke, she is also determined to remain faithful to the man she has married.  The death of her mother comes as such a blow to the princess that she feels she must confess everything to the Prince.  All will be well, she is certain, if her husband will only keep her away from the court and all the temptations it offers.  Alas, rumours that the Prince's wife has taken a lover have already begun to circulate.  The princess's destiny must follow its tragic course...