Films that chart a revolution
Andrzej Wajda’s “Danton” (1983) is an outstanding film, as Susan King mentioned (even with the subtitles) [“A Tribute to a French Palace Is in the House,” Nov. 2]. As good as Gerard Depardieu is in the title role, however, Wojciech Pszoniak’s portrayal of icy Robespierre is even better. My only criticism would be that, although the film tries its best, it never attains the required feeling of dread for the volatile era it depicts. Somewhat covering the same ground, Anthony Mann’s halfway-campy “Reign of Terror” (1949), with Richard Basehart playing Robespierre, is more fun to watch (if less historically accurate).
I’m surprised that the French have never made a film about Robespierre. Maybe they’re still mortified about how he ruined their glorious revolution.
CHARLES REILLY
Manhattan Beach
Only good movies
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