Cyrano de Bergerac (1990) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
“Cyrano de Bergerac,” directed by Jean-Paul Rappeneau and released in 1990, is a captivating adaptation of Edmond Rostand’s classic play. Starring Gérard Depardieu in the titular role, this French film brings the timeless tale of love, honor, and poetic brilliance to life with stunning performances and exquisite production values.
Plot Summary
Set in 17th-century France, “Cyrano de Bergerac” follows the story of Cyrano (Gérard Depardieu), a skilled poet, swordsman, and cadet in the French army. Despite his many talents, Cyrano is deeply self-conscious about his unusually large nose, which he believes makes him unworthy of love. He is secretly in love with his beautiful cousin, Roxane (Anne Brochet), but fears rejection due to his appearance.
Roxane, unaware of Cyrano’s feelings, confides in him about her love for Christian de Neuvillette (Vincent Perez), a handsome but inarticulate cadet. Out of loyalty and love for Roxane, Cyrano helps Christian woo her by writing eloquent letters and speeches on his behalf. This leads to a complex and poignant love triangle, where Cyrano’s words win Roxane’s heart, but Christian receives the credit.
Performances
Gérard Depardieu delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Cyrano, perfectly capturing the character’s wit, bravery, and vulnerability. His portrayal brings depth and humanity to Cyrano, making him both a tragic and heroic figure. Depardieu’s command of the poetic dialogue and his physical presence make his performance truly memorable.
Anne Brochet is enchanting as Roxane, conveying intelligence, grace, and a deep sense of longing. Vincent Perez also shines as Christian, effectively portraying the character’s charm and insecurity. The chemistry between the three leads adds emotional weight to the story, making the love triangle both believable and compelling.
Direction and Cinematography
Jean-Paul Rappeneau’s direction is masterful, balancing the film’s dramatic and comedic elements with precision. The screenplay, co-written by Rappeneau and Jean-Claude Carrière, remains faithful to Rostand’s original play while making it accessible to modern audiences. Pierre Lhomme’s cinematography beautifully captures the period setting, with lavish costumes and detailed sets that transport viewers to 17th-century France.
Themes
“Cyrano de Bergerac” explores themes of love, identity, and the power of language. The film delves into the idea of inner versus outer beauty, highlighting Cyrano’s struggle with self-acceptance and his belief that his physical appearance renders him unworthy of love. It also underscores the importance of words and expression, as Cyrano’s poetic talents ultimately shape the romantic destiny of the characters.
Where to Watch “Cyrano de Bergerac” Online
For those looking to watch “Cyrano de Bergerac” online, there are several streaming options available in the United States:
Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is available for streaming with an Amazon Prime subscription or for rent/purchase.
Rental/Purchase Options:
- Amazon: Available for rent or purchase, with rental prices typically starting at $3.99 and purchase prices around $14.99.
- Apple iTunes: The film can be rented or purchased on iTunes at similar pricing to Amazon.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Offers rental and purchase options with competitive pricing.
- Vudu: The film is available for rent or purchase on Vudu.
Conclusion
“Cyrano de Bergerac” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences due to its universal themes and exceptional performances. Gérard Depardieu’s portrayal of Cyrano is a tour-de-force, bringing depth and emotion to the character’s poetic soul and unrequited love. Jean-Paul Rappeneau’s direction, coupled with stunning cinematography and faithful adaptation of the source material, makes this film a must-watch for fans of classic literature and historical dramas.
Whether you’re discovering this story for the first time or revisiting it, “Cyrano de Bergerac” offers a rich and rewarding cinematic experience. Explore the various streaming options to watch this beloved film and immerse yourself in the world of poetic romance and honor.
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