Review of Camille Claudel (1988) by Jenifer A — 09 Jul 2011

[85/B+] A magniloquently dark and fascinating portrait of a young, headstrong female sculptor in 19th century Paris, whose talent and lust for artistic expression become diverted and irreparably damaged through a torrid love affair, and its aftermath, with the era's master of sculpture Auguste Rodin.

The atmosphere and sets of this movie, evoking the world of Belle Époque France with great deftness, are enveloping and fragrant and understated, but as good as they are it's the fine acting that really holds one's attention; the spectacle lies mainly in the interplay of characters, with their grim determinations and obstinate senses of pride and personal combats with society. Depardieu's Rodin, especially, is a rounded and bristling individual beset by professional and emotional challenges, who manifests a looming magnetism and angst that is hard to shake for its depth.

Adjani's title character, on the other hand, is portrayed on more spare terms. Her motivations are simpler and more streamlined, as she initially speaks little, and is identified more purely through her dedication to the practice of her art and, eventually, to her romantic submerging into Rodin's character and world. Only in her growing madness and despair does she begin to take over the film, but throughout it all she is played exceedingly well by Adjani in a heartbreaking, frightening role that is sometimes difficult to watch.

Camille Claudel is a picture of tragic, emotional turmoil and real sadness. The demise of its heroine may haunt you or even exhaust you, but this is a strong dramatic work featuring two of the world's finest living actors in top form, and should be seen to be appreciated.