As a seasoned cinephile with a penchant for grandiose storytelling and a soft spot for historical epics, I can hardly contain my excitement at the prospect of Baz Luhrmann’s upcoming retelling of Joan of Arc. Having grown up on the opulent visual feasts that are Luhrmann’s oeuvre, from the decadent excesses of Romeo + Juliet to the glitzy grandeur of The Great Gatsby, I can only imagine what he might do with a story as rich and layered as Joan of Arc.
Director Baz Luhrmann has officially teamed up with Warner Bros once more, this time for a grand adaptation of the true-life tale of French heroine Joan of Arc. While details are scarce at this stage, a casting call was recently issued in search of the lead character – a young girl who becomes a national symbol as she displays remarkable strength and tenacity during the Hundred Years’ War.
During his 62nd birthday celebration, Luhrmann unveiled his plans to adapt an extraordinary French epic, a fact first reported by Deadline and later confirmed by Warner Bros. The film may bear one of two titles: either “Jehanne” or “Jehanne d’Arc.” According to reports, Luhrmann describes the story as “an ultimate teenage girl’s journey through self-discovery amidst the Hundred Years’ War.” Although he has remained tight-lipped about the project, with casting already underway, updates on this exciting development are expected soon.
Whispers about a potential leading actress for the role of Joan of Arc have been heard, and it seems that Jenna Ortega from “Wednesday” might be in the running. In an earlier interview with Letterboxd this month, Ortega expressed her dream to portray Joan of Arc. Interestingly, Carl Theodor Dreyer’s 1928 silent film, “The Passion of Joan of Arc,” is one of Ortega’s favorite films. Additionally, Ortega’s past collaboration with Warner Bros. on “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” could increase her chances for the role. You can watch Ortega’s interview with Letterboxd below:
How Luhrmann Can Make Jehanne D’Arc His Own
Director Carl Theodor Dreyer isn’t the only one who has tried to retell France’s most renowned national hero; in fact, as early as 1928, he produced a film that is now generally considered a milestone in cinema – “The Passion of Joan of Arc.” This silent movie primarily uses close-ups and high contrast lighting, and prohibits the use of makeup on actors to create strikingly raw profiles. As a result, it offers a minimalistic yet profound portrayal of Joan of Arc’s devotion and divine nature, despite her enduring immense suffering.
In a unique way, Baz Luhrmann’s unparalleled filmmaking techniques make him exceptionally suitable to portray Joan of Arc’s tale on screen, offering an unprecedented interpretation. For instance, unlike the minimalist costumes and sets in Carl Theodor Dreyer’s The Passion of Joan of Arc, Luhrmann is renowned for his flamboyant visual approach. His work, such as the extravagant party scene in Romeo + Juliet and the stunning introduction to Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby, is characterized by intricate costuming, dense sets, and dynamic camera movements that highlight opulence and style.
It remains uncertain as to what specific changes or approaches Baz Luhrmann will employ in his adaptation of Jehanne D’Arc; however, given his track record of seamlessly merging contemporary and historical elements, it is clear that he has the ability to make this story his own. From setting timeless tales in modern settings, like the 1990s-inspired Verona Beach in Romeo + Juliet, to incorporating contemporary music within period-appropriate narratives, as seen in the soundtrack of Elvis, Luhrmann is a master at crafting harmonious and captivating stories by skillfully blending artistic elements across different eras. Whatever his vision for Jehanne D’Arc may be, it promises to be a success.
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2024-09-17 23:31