4 out 5 stars
Director Xavier Giannoli (Marguerite) has managed to capture the corruptible and tragic world of Lucien de Rubempré in the award-winning French epic. In assembling the who’s who of France’s elite actors for this film, he managed to leave the story's main character in the hands of the lesser-known Benjamin Voisin (Summer of 85). A choice that was a master stroke for the celebrated director and a career-defining turn for the young lead. The only hope is that he does not go on to exemplify the downward arc of his on-screen alter ego.
For those unfamiliar with the works of novelist Honoré de Balzac who penned Illusions Perdues (Lost Illusions), it all begins in the provinces of France. Lucien is a poor, but talented poet who catches the ear and heart of the patroness of the arts, Louise de Bargeton (Cécile de France). Despite being married to one of the most influential men in the province, she takes the young poet to Paris. While in the city, he is ostracised by the royalist elite, but is discovered by the newspaper editor, Etienne Lousteau (Vincent Lacoste). As his protege, the corrupt and streetwise news peddler capitailses on the writing abilities of Lucien. They both work their way up the ranks within society until each finds they have different goals for themselves, leading to the potential demise of both men.
As everything was changing in post-revolution France, this became a fascinating study of the influence of newspapers and showed how fake news was alive and well in the 1800s. The narration of Lucien’s life became captivating, even after he rose through the ranks of the elite of Paris. Throughout the film, Benjamin Voisin transforms from the naive country boy into a devious writer of text that would make him feared and despised within the city. Despite being one of the youngest within the cast of giants of French cinema, the actor carried this tale of misfortune through to the bitter end. Yet, the rich cast of supporting characters made this epic storyline into a smorgasbord of delectable morsels of cinematic magic. From Jeanne Balibar through to Gérard Depardieu, every role was filled with a precision that justified all of its acclaim.
One thing that can be said about Honoré de Balzac is attention to detail as he takes his audience through the Dickens-esque view of Paris’ high society, journalism and theatre. While Xavier Giannoli honours the novel with a colourful interpretation that should capture the hearts and minds of audiences around the world. Like most French dramas, this work of fiction takes a path towards inevitable and seedy destruction. Yet, within each act, some elements will engage the viewer with depth and vitality, drawing anyone to the tragic conclusion. Lost Illusions is a masterful work that is worth discovering while it is still in cinemas.
REEL DIALOGUE: Wise choices
Honoré de Balzac’s novel is the epitome of people making bad choices, which begs the question: how do you make good decisions? The issue of gaining wisdom can be sought out through the latest motivational speaker, great philosophers of the past, or someone who personifies good personal judgment in life. The only problem with all of these sources can be that even though they may be competent in one area, this does not mean that they always make the best choices.
That brings us back to the niggling issue of seeking wisdom. Can it be found in this life?
The first step is finding the source of all wisdom and who holds these insights. The Bible says that knowledge begins within the fear of the Lord. (Proverbs 1:7) This means the first place to go for insights is to God, who gives out his wisdom freely to all who seek after him and listen.
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. James 1:5
This revelation is a groundbreaking concept, that all knowledge and wisdom can be found in the God of the Bible. It is there for the taking, but there is a catch. Belief.
To access this infinite pool of enlightenment and salvation, a person must believe in the source. If you want to gain the universe's wisdom, then you have to make your first 'good choice.' Believe in the God of the Bible.
