Controversial French director Catherine Breillat tackles costume drama with this adaptation of a 19th century classic, and can’t resist infusing it with gender issues and sex.
Ryno de Marigny (Aattou) is a pouting libertine set to marry a beautiful aristocrat (Mesquida). But first he must rid himself of terrifying Spanish vixen Vellini (Argento).
Sadly, despite the supposed passion, the film often feels stilted, not least since Aattou has the charisma of a shop mannequin.
If you want a good French period drama, watch Ridicule. If you want porn, watch porn. This will disappoint on both counts.