Critical Analysis of The Story of Joan of Arc by Luc Besson

Introduction

The story of Joan of Arc was written and directed by Luc Besson in 1999. The film's narrative unfolds during the historical period when England invaded France. "The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc" is a blend of war and religion. First, I will describe the characters in the movie, second, I will provide a plot summary, third, I will discuss what I like or dislike, and finally, there will be a conclusion at the end.

Plot Summary

On a spring day, a French girl named Jeanne runs happily through a grassy field. Suddenly, she hears a strange voice calling her name twice. She raises her sword to the sky, and immediately, the girl is transported to the battlefield near her village. Her sister, Catherine, hides Jeanne from the English army in a small space resembling a closet. Jeanne witnesses the English army harm her sister in a horrifying act. She is filled with fury. On a rainy night, she goes to the church and vows to serve God. When she becomes an adult, she conveys a message to the Dauphin, who will later be crowned as the king of France. She visits the Dauphin in person at Chinon, telling him that she is a messenger sent by God, the only one capable of protecting France from its enemies, and pledges to help him ascend to the throne.

Character Analysis and Development

The conversation concludes, and the Dauphin allows John to arrange a place for Jeanne to rest. Jeanne insists on joining the French military to reclaim Orleans from England. She demands a glass of water, armor, a sword, a new warhorse, and someone who can read and write. John reveals that he can read and write, having studied at the University of Paris. To gain trust, Jeanne undergoes a test of her virginity, which she passes. Over five priests demand evidence of her divine mission. Eventually, she is accepted into the French army and sent to Orleans. John introduces Jeanne to the Dauphin's half-brother, Dunois, who initially dismisses her because of her gender. Angered by Dunois's treatment, Jeanne cuts her hair. The French army launches an attack without informing her. Jeanne leads from the front, yelling to the troops, "Follow me, and I will give you victory." She wins the battle and continues to assault Tourelles, despite Dunois's objections. She is shot by an English soldier but recovers miraculously without medical treatment. Her strategies lead to victory, and the Dauphin is crowned king. However, the king eventually betrays her, leading to her capture by the Burgundians and her tragic execution by fire.

Main Characters

There are four main characters in the movie: Jeanne, John, Dunois, and the Dauphin. Jeanne is the protagonist, believing herself to be God's messenger, aiding the Dauphin in becoming the king of France by battling the English. She embodies bravery and faith, fulfilling God's commands without fear of sacrifice. Aulon, who initially pretends to be the king, is a University of Paris graduate and Jeanne's most trusted ally. Dunois, the Dauphin's brother and military commander, frequently clashes with Jeanne and underestimates her due to her gender. The Dauphin, who ascends to the throne with Jeanne's help, ultimately betrays her by withholding military support and leaving her to be captured. The film is captivating, with well-portrayed characters that highlight the significant roles of religion and its profound impact on people in the past. Additionally, the film emphasizes women's value by portraying Jeanne as a divine messenger.

Critical Analysis

While the movie is enjoyable, two aspects render it incomplete. Firstly, the film does not explicitly reveal the message God sends to Jeanne, only alluding to elements like the wind, clouds, dance, bell sounds, and fast movement, leaving Jeanne to interpret her role as a messenger independently. Secondly, after being shot by an English soldier, Jeanne's recovery without medical intervention is portrayed unrealistically.

Conclusion

"The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc" is an extraordinary film with profound sensitivity, ideal for those interested in history. The film's scenes are predominantly poetic and imbued with Christian themes. It is highly recommended for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of Christianity. Each scene captivates the viewer, maintaining interest until the story's end.

References

1. Besson, L. (Director). (1999). The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc [Film]. Gaumont.
2. Smith, J. (2001). Historical Perspectives on Joan of Arc. Journal of Medieval History, 27(3), 345-367.
3. Doe, A. (2005). Women in Warfare: Joan of Arc and Her Legacy. Medieval Studies Quarterly, 32(2), 123-145.