Chevalier: Film Review
Kelvin Harrison Jr. has been turning in great performances for a while now in films like Monsters and Men, Waves, and Cyrano – but his sensational leading performance in Chevalier is easily his best work so far.
In this biographical drama, directed by Stephen Williams, Harrison Jr. plays Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, believed to be the first Black classical composer and pre-eminent virtuoso violinist. The film, inspired by the forgotten 18th-century musician’s true story, shows how the illegitimate son of an African slave and white plantation owner rose to the heights of Parisian society and became good acquaintances with Marie Antoinette (Lucy Boynton).
Bologne throws his hat into the ring when the chance to lead the Paris Opera arises. However, the queen suggests a competition – whoever can create the best original opera will get the coveted position. Bologne casts Marie-Josephine (Samara Weaving), much to the chagrin of her husband Marc Rene (Marton Csokas), as the lead actress in his production, to be produced by Madame De Genlis (Sian Clifford).
The performances were the highlight of Chevalier. Harrison Jr. was finally given a role that shows what he can really do and how much range he has. Bologne’s position in high society is a precarious one – while he is well respected and admired, he will never be fully accepted or treated as an equal. As terrific as he is, my personal favourite was Weaving, who has such a vibrant personality and captivating onscreen presence. No wonder Bologne falls for Marie-Josephine!
The supporting cast is excellent as well. Boynton is well cast as the mercurial Marie Antoinette, who is friends with Bologne one moment and pulling rank the next. Their friendship evolves significantly over the course of the movie and she is instrumental in his downfall. Plus, there’s the lovely Clifford and Minnie Driver as a bitchy and demanding opera singer (similar to her character in Phantom!) The film may be based in France but the actors wisely stick to their own American or English accents (with the exception of Australian Weaving).
This is a fictionalised account of Bologne’s story although it is guided by real events. I felt deeply invested in the ill-fated love story and moved by its tragic turns. I was also in awe of the stunning period costumes and beautiful classical music. Highly recommend.
In cinemas from Friday 9th June and Disney+ from 26th July