Jean-Baptiste Poqueline, known as Molière, was to French literature what William Shakespeare was to English literature. He was not as poetic as Shakespeare, but he excelled in comedy that laughed at both the pretensions of his time and the foibles of human nature. After more than three centuries, his plays continue to delight audiences, but very little is known about the man himself. This film is a fictionalised account of the early career of the French playwright based on two of his plays, and it is an extravagant period drama that mixes tragedy, comedy and romance.
In 1644, the young Molière (Romain Duris) was an unsuccessful actor whose company had become bankrupt. Rescued from debtors’ prison by the wealthy Jourdain (Fabrice Luchini), Molière has to help the nobleman woo a young socialite by the name of Celimene (Ludivine Sagnier) in return. Disguised as a priest, he is put in a very awkward position when he falls in love with Jourdain’s neglected wife Elmire (Laura Morante). This complicated romp also throws in a forbidden romance and an adept swindler. The costumes are lavish and the wonderfully witty dialogue includes many quips referring to modern times as the main character discovers that comedy can be just as effective as tragedy.
Molière screens as part of the Perth International Arts Festival’s Lotterywest Festival Film series during December at Somerville Auditorium (UWA) Dec 24, 26-30 and Joondalup Pines (ECU) Dec 31 – Jan 6. The gates open at 6pm if you want to take a picnic (or you can buy food there), and the film starts at 8.30pm. You can also buy tickets in advance at a discount price from BOCS to avoid having to queue. The programme for the rest of the festival, including the festival films, is available at www.perthfestival.com.au.
Directed by Laurent Tirard. Rated PG.
