47 Facts About The Movie The Messenger: The Story Of Joan Of Arc

Historical Background:

The movie is based on the real-life story of Joan of Arc, a young French peasant girl who claimed to have visions of saints and led the French army to several victories during the Hundred Years’ War.

Director and Writer:

“The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc” was directed by renowned French filmmaker Luc Besson, who also wrote the screenplay for the film.

Portrayal of Joan of Arc:

Joan of Arc is portrayed by French actress Milla Jovovich, who delivers a powerful and captivating performance as the iconic historical figure.

Historical Accuracy:

The film attempts to stay true to the historical events surrounding Joan of Arc’s life, although some elements have been fictionalized for dramatic effect.

Cinematic Release:

The movie was released in 1999 and received mixed reviews from critics, but garnered praise for its visual aesthetics and the performances of the cast.

International Cast:

The film features a diverse cast of actors from different countries, including John Malkovich, Faye Dunaway, Dustin Hoffman, and Vincent Cassel.

Language:

The movie is primarily in English, but also includes some dialogue in French to add authenticity to the setting and characters.

Music Score:

The original score for the film was composed by Éric Serra, who collaborated with Luc Besson on several other films.

Production Design:

The movie’s production design is visually stunning, with elaborate sets and costumes that transport viewers back to medieval France.

Joan of Arc’s Trial:

The film prominently features Joan of Arc’s trial, where she is accused of heresy and witchcraft, ultimately leading to her execution.

Battle Scenes:

The movie showcases several epic battle scenes, with intricate choreography and realistic portrayals of medieval warfare.

Religious Themes:

Religion plays a central role in the film, exploring Joan of Arc’s unwavering faith and her divine calling to save France.

Cinematography:

The film utilizes visually striking cinematography techniques to enhance the storytelling, capturing both the breathtaking landscapes and the intimate moments of the characters.

Critical Response:

Despite the mixed reviews, Milla Jovovich’s performance as Joan of Arc was widely praised by critics for its intensity and authenticity.

Box Office Performance:

Despite the buzz surrounding the film, it did not perform well at the box office, failing to recoup its estimated $60 million budget.

Joan of Arc’s Legacy:

The film explores the enduring legacy of Joan of Arc, who was later canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church.

Joan of Arc’s Influence in Pop Culture:

Joan of Arc has been a popular subject in literature, music, and film, with “The Messenger” being one of the many adaptations of her story.

Historical Research:

Luc Besson conducted extensive research to ensure the film’s historical accuracy, consulting with historians and scholars to recreate the events of Joan of Arc’s life.

Political Intrigue:

The film delves into the political complexities of medieval France, including the rivalries between the French and English factions.

Costume Design:

The intricate costumes worn by the actors were meticulously designed to reflect the fashion and styles of the 15th century.

Joan of Arc’s Trial Transcripts:

Luc Besson incorporated actual excerpts from Joan of Arc’s trial transcripts into the film, adding an extra layer of authenticity.

Training for the Role:

Milla Jovovich underwent extensive training in horseback riding and sword-fighting to prepare for her physically demanding role as Joan of Arc.

Character Development:

The film explores the personal transformation of Joan of Arc, from a simple peasant girl to a fearless warrior and leader.

Symbolism:

The movie incorporates various symbolic elements, such as Joan of Arc’s iconic white armor and the recurring motif of fire.

Religious Persecution:

The film sheds light on the religious persecution faced by Joan of Arc, who was considered a threat by both the English invaders and some members of the French clergy.

Awards and Nominations:

“The Messenger” received two Academy Award nominations for Best Costume Design and Best Sound Mixing.

Joan of Arc’s Trial Reenactment:

The film includes a gripping reenactment of Joan of Arc’s trial, showcasing the intense interrogations and the psychological toll it takes on her.

Film’s Length:

The runtime of “The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc” is approximately 155 minutes.

Use of Special Effects:

The film features a judicious use of special effects to enhance the battle scenes and moments of divine intervention experienced by Joan of Arc.

Joan of Arc’s Spiritual Guidance:

The movie emphasizes Joan of Arc’s unwavering belief in her divine mission, as she receives guidance from spiritual figures such as Saint Michael and Saint Catherine.

French Film Financing:

The production of “The Messenger” was supported by various French film funding organizations, including Pathé and Canal+.

Historical Sound Design:

The film’s sound design incorporates elements of medieval France, such as the sounds of clashing swords and galloping horses, to immerse viewers in the era.

Joan of Arc’s Trial Witnesses:

The movie introduces several witnesses who testify against Joan of Arc during her trial, providing insights into the political motivations behind her persecution.

Controversial Interpretations:

Some historians have criticized the film for taking artistic liberties with the factual events and for its portrayal of Joan of Arc.

Exploration of Gender Roles:

The film touches upon the challenges Joan of Arc faced as a woman in a predominantly male-dominated society, highlighting her courage and resilience.

Battle Strategies:

“The Messenger” showcases the strategic military tactics employed by Joan of Arc, who had an innate understanding of warfare despite her lack of formal training.

Joan of Arc’s Trial Verdict:

The film accurately depicts Joan of Arc being condemned to death by burning at the stake, a fate she accepted with unwavering determination.

International Box Office Performance:

Although the film underperformed in the United States, it found moderate success overseas, particularly in France and other European countries.

Joan of Arc’s Final Words:

Before her execution, Joan of Arc reportedly uttered the iconic words, “Hold the cross high so I may see it through the flames” – a line included in the film.

Joan of Arc’s Canonization:

Centuries later, Joan of Arc was officially canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church, solidifying her place in history.

Iconic Scenes:

The movie features several memorable scenes, including Joan of Arc’s first encounter with Saint Michael in a dream and the dramatic battle sequences.

Distribution Challenges:

The film faced distribution challenges due to its lengthy runtime and the divisive reception it received upon its initial release.

Joan of Arc’s Legacy in France:

Joan of Arc is revered as a national heroine in France, with numerous statues, monuments, and landmarks dedicated to her memory throughout the country.

International Accolades:

In addition to the Academy Award nominations, the film received recognition at various international film festivals for its technical achievements.

Joan of Arc’s Personal Sacrifice:

The film explores the personal sacrifices made by Joan of Arc, including her separation from her family and her eventual martyrdom.

Themes of Courage and Heroism:

“The Messenger” highlights the themes of courage and heroism, as Joan of Arc fearlessly leads her troops into battle against overwhelming odds.

Lifelong Impact:

Joan of Arc’s story continues to inspire people around the world, serving as a testament to the power of faith, courage, and the indomitable human spirit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc” is a captivating and historically significant film that chronicles the extraordinary life of Joan of Arc. With its visually stunning cinematography, powerful performances, and a compelling narrative, this movie successfully brings to life the story of a courageous young woman who defied societal norms and played a pivotal role in shaping the course of French history.

Through its detailed and gripping portrayal of Joan of Arc’s journey, the film not only highlights her unwavering faith and determination but also explores complex themes such as religion, patriotism, and gender roles. The combination of Luc Besson’s directing talent, Milla Jovovich’s exceptional performance as Joan, and a talented ensemble cast makes “The Messenger” a must-watch for history enthusiasts and film lovers alike.

With its historical accuracy and attention to detail, “The Messenger” stands as a remarkable cinematic achievement that sheds light on an iconic figure and her profound impact on the world. Whether you’re interested in history, enjoy period dramas, or simply appreciate well-crafted storytelling, this film is a testament to the power of human spirit and the enduring legacy of Joan of Arc.

FAQs

Q: Is “The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc” based on a true story?

A: Yes, the movie is based on the true story of Joan of Arc, a French heroine who played a significant role in the Hundred Years’ War.

Q: Who stars in “The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc”?

A: The film stars Milla Jovovich in the lead role of Joan of Arc. The cast also includes John Malkovich, Faye Dunaway, and Dustin Hoffman, among others.

Q: Is the movie historically accurate?

A: While the film takes some creative liberties for dramatic purposes, it generally stays true to the historical events and provides an accurate portrayal of Joan of Arc’s life and the challenges she faced.

Q: What themes does the movie explore?

A: “The Messenger” explores themes of faith, destiny, courage, gender roles, and the power of conviction in the face of adversity.

Q: Is “The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc” suitable for all audiences?

A: The film is rated R for intense battle scenes and some graphic violence, so it may not be suitable for younger viewers. Parental discretion is advised.