The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc (1999) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Directed by Luc Besson, The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc (1999) is an ambitious historical drama that explores the life and legacy of one of history’s most iconic figures. Starring Milla Jovovich as Joan, the film combines elements of action, drama, and spirituality, offering a visually stunning and emotionally resonant portrayal of Joan’s journey.
In this review, we’ll explore the plot, character performances, themes, visual style, critical reception, and where to stream or rent The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc online in the U.S.
Plot Summary: A Heroine’s Journey
Set during the Hundred Years’ War, the film follows Joan of Arc, a young peasant girl who receives visions from saints instructing her to lead the French army against the English occupiers. Driven by her faith and sense of duty, Joan convinces Charles VII (played by John Malkovich) to allow her to lead his troops.
As she rises to prominence, Joan faces immense challenges, including skepticism from political leaders, betrayal from allies, and the brutal realities of war. The film culminates in her capture, trial, and martyrdom, highlighting her unwavering conviction and the impact of her legacy on France.
Cast and Performances: A Strong Ensemble
The performances in The Messenger contribute significantly to its emotional weight:
- Milla Jovovich delivers a powerful performance as Joan, capturing her youthful idealism, fierce determination, and the anguish of her trials. Her portrayal has been both praised and criticized, but it undeniably conveys the intensity of Joan’s character.
- John Malkovich brings depth to Charles VII, depicting a ruler torn between ambition and fear, further highlighting Joan’s pivotal role in his ascension.
- The supporting cast, including Faye Dunaway as the Inquisitor and Vincent Cassel as the warrior Gilles de Rais, adds complexity to the narrative, portraying the various perspectives surrounding Joan’s life and legacy.
Themes: Faith, Identity, and Sacrifice
The Messenger delves into several significant themes:
- Faith and conviction: The film emphasizes the power of belief and its ability to drive individuals to accomplish extraordinary feats, as seen through Joan’s unwavering faith.
- Sacrifice and martyrdom: Joan’s ultimate sacrifice is a poignant reminder of the cost of standing up for one’s beliefs, raising questions about heroism and the complexities of martyrdom.
- Identity and gender roles: The film explores Joan’s struggle to assert her identity in a male-dominated society, challenging traditional notions of gender and power.
Visual Style: Striking Cinematography
The visual style of The Messenger is one of its standout features. Luc Besson’s direction showcases breathtaking cinematography, capturing the epic battles and the haunting beauty of medieval France. The film’s production design, costumes, and special effects create a vivid and immersive historical setting, enhancing the storytelling.
Critical Reception: A Mixed Response
Upon its release, The Messenger received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its ambitious scope and visual splendor, others found the narrative uneven and criticized certain artistic choices. Milla Jovovich’s performance garnered both admiration and scrutiny, contributing to the film’s polarized reception. Despite this, it has found an audience among those interested in historical dramas and stories of strong female figures.
Where to Watch The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc Online in the U.S.
If you’re interested in watching The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc, here are some platforms in the U.S. where you can find it:
1. Amazon Prime Video
Available for rental or purchase.
- Rental Price: Approximately $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $9.99
- Devices: Accessible on Fire TV, Roku, smart TVs, and mobile devices.
2. Google Play Movies & TV
Available for rental or purchase.
- Rental Price: Approximately $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $9.99
- Devices: Compatible with Android devices, smart TVs, and Chromecast.
3. Apple TV (iTunes)
Available for rent or purchase in HD.
- Rental Price: Approximately $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $9.99
- Devices: Watch on iPhones, iPads, Apple TVs, and Macs.
4. Vudu
Available for rental and purchase without a subscription.
- Rental Price: Approximately $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $9.99
- Devices: Watch on Roku, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
Conclusion: A Visually Stunning Epic
The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc (1999) is a visually stunning and ambitious portrayal of one of history’s most fascinating figures. With its strong performances, particularly by Milla Jovovich, and its exploration of themes like faith, sacrifice, and identity, the film offers an engaging experience for viewers interested in historical narratives. For those looking to delve into the life of Joan of Arc, The Messenger is available on various streaming and rental platforms in the U.S.
