dir Vera Belmont - Marquise is a sprightly, entertaining costume drama based on the story of the fetching dancer-cum-thespian who dazzled Moliere, Racine and the Sun King himself before making a suitably theatrical exit in 1668 at age 35. She is seen entertaining a scruffy crowd by Moliere's friend Gros-Rene who, immediately smitten, proposes, promising her a chance at the stages of Versailles. She accepts and although the brazen, self-assured beauty and her balding, roly-poly husband appear to be the odd couple, their relationship thrives on his bottomless adoration and her reciprocal affection. Marquise sleeps around with the rich and famous of the day, yet cherishes her husband. Shot and edited with alacrity, the film conveys the mud, muck and rabble as well as the sumptuous pomp of 17th century France. The frivolity of the opening of the film gradually gives way to deeper themes - artistic and romantic rivalry, remaining in favor at court, knowing when to be witty, when to be wily and when to weep. The script is peppered with risque banter and finely tuned insults but remains grounded and accessible. (France/Italy/Switzerland 1997) 121 min. AA mature theme, sexual content. subtitled Home | March Calendar | April Calendar | Cinema Info | Advertisers