The Antlerette Volume 97
August 2022
Issue 2
Marie Antoinette: A Film Analysis Nefertary Cabrera, Staff
Marie Antoinette is a cinematic masterpiece. Directed by Sofia Coppola, the hyperfeminine film follows a fifteen-year-old Marie, as she arrives at the French Court. Coppola approaches the story with consideration. The film is shot through a rose colored lense, showing Marie’s innocence, although Coppola doesn’t stray away from showing Marie’s flaws like her gluttony and over-consumption. In 2006, the film was heavily criticized for its style. Critics claimed the film was pure costumes and no substance. What these critics fail to realize is that this is Coppola's signature style. Coppola intended to show the girlish, playful visuals to emphasize how young Marie was. The imagery of the dresses, shoes, and jewelry was meant to show Marie’s indulgences. In recent years, a revival of reclaiming femininity has emerged. A lot of young girls and women are embracing their femininity. The film has become a staple for girls who choose to celebrate their girlhood. The film focuses on her intolerable loneliness; whenever Marie is not distracting herself with glamorous parties or fashion she is followed by her isolation. As viewers, we can see the emptiness she feels. Coppola displays Marie’s melancholia in the most beautiful way. Marie’s wardrobe is a symbol of her emotions.
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