Vatel (2000)
Directed by Roland Joffé

Film Review

Despite some impressive production values (the sets and costumes are magnificent), Vatel is overall a disappointing and insubstantial work.  There are two main reasons for this.  First, the film fails to exploit the potential of most of its cast, with Depardieu in particular being wasted.

More tellingly, the script is at best mediocre, in places execrable, resorting to cheap innuendo instead of amusing wit, is weighed down by weak characterisation, and shows a singular lack of imagination and create talent.

By contrast, the set designs are breathtaking and it is clear this is where all the creative talent went.  The reproductions of the royal entertainments are not just eye catching; when viewed on a full-size cinema screen they are absolutely amazing.  Unfortunately, the pleasure of watching all this is marred by some truly irritating background music and a dire acting performance from Uma Thurman.

Film Synopsis

In 1671, the ageing Prince de Condé is anxious to regain the favour of King Louis XIV so that he can earn himself a commission as a general and lead a glorious military campaign against the Dutch.  To this end, he intends organising a magnificent three-day festival at his large country estate, the Château de Chantilly.  The organisation of the festivities he leaves to his faithful steward François Vatel, for whom this event will be the crowning glory of his career - if it succeeds.  It is not only the King who is invited; the whole of his court at Versailles is to accompany him, and Condé is adamant that no expense should be spared, even if this lavish show of profligacy ends up bankrupting him.  For all the respect he garners, Vatel is a proud man who bitterly resents his low social status.  It is with repressed hostility that he submits to the demands of etiquette and the unreasonable exigencies of his employer, who respects his talent but still treats him like a lowly servant.  The final humiliation comes when Vatel discovers he has been won by the King in a game of cards...