BRUNO NUYTTEN
Bil’s rating (out of 5): BBBB. France, 1988. Les Films Christian Fechner, Lilith Films I.A., Gaumont, France 2, Films A2, DD Productions, Ministère de la Culture et de la Communication, Centre National de la Cinématographie, Sofica Créations, Sofimage, Soficas Investimages, Images Investissements, Soffia. Scenario and dialogue by Bruno Nuytten, Marilyn Goldin, collaborator on dialogue Misa Terami, based on the book by Reine-Marie Paris. Cinematography by Pierre Lhomme. Produced by Bernard Artigues. Music by Gabriel Yared. Production Design by Bernard Vezat. Costume Design by Dominique Borg. Film Editing by Jeanne Kef, Joelle Hache. Academy Awards 1989. Golden Globe Awards 1989.
Like many female classical artists of yesteryear, Camille Claudel was a talented, gifted sculptor whose work has long been ignored or (mistakenly?) attributed to a male artist who worked near her. In Claudel’s case, it was the sculptor Rodin, who was a lifelong colleague, friend and sometimes lover who was an integral part of shaping both her art and her life. Isabelle Adjani brings a lot of fiery intensity to the role of Claudel, while Gerard Depardieu is the perfect match for her as Rodin in this excellent biographical film by Bruno Nuytten. Sumptuously produced, it allows Adjani (who also produced the film) endless amounts of room to show what a marvelous actress she is, though sadly she hasn’t had this good a role ever since. If you have the blessed fortune to watch it you will enjoy an extremely satisfying experience.
