Moliere

Laurent Tirard's Moliere is a wonderful film. Moliere (Romain Duris) was a well known writer of plays - mostly comedies. At the beginning of the film he and his acting troupe return to Paris after years of playing all around the country. He is going to perform for the king. He wants to write a tragedy but the king only wants to see a comedy. While thinking about what to write Moliere thinks back to what happened many years ago.

At that time Moliere was broke and was arrested because he had a debt that he couldn't pay. He is rescued from jail by wealthy man by the name of M. Jourdain (Fabrice Luchini). Jourdain wants help with writing a play to win over a young widow named Celimene (Ludvine Sagnier). Oh, I should mention that Jourdain is married to Elmire (Laura Morante). Helping Jourdain along with his romantic quest is his best friend Dorante (Edouard Baer). While living with Jourdain Moliere develops a strong bond with Elmire.

And that my friends is all I will say about the plot. The film is funny but it also has a serious side to it. It is absolutely beautiful to look at. And the acting is terrific. I have never thought that Duris was a great actor but he is really good in this film. Baer and Sagnier have some fine moments in the film as well. But the top acting honors goes to Luchini and Morante. They are outstanding in their roles.

Moliere may have written comedies but they were sometimes tinged with tragedy. And the same could be said about tragedies that are tinged with humor. And that is what life is like - sometimes bitter and sometimes sweet. In any case, I highly recommend this film to those of you who love good period pieces.