Colette
History is about to change
Overview
After marrying a successful Parisian writer known commonly as Willy, Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette is transplanted from her childhood home in rural France to the intellectual and artistic splendor of Paris. Soon after, Willy convinces Colette to ghostwrite for him. She pens a semi-autobiographical novel about a witty and brazen country girl named Claudine, sparking a bestseller and a cultural sensation. After its success, Colette and Willy become the talk of Paris and their adventures inspire additional Claudine novels.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
Colette's story is significant because she was a real person who challenged the norms of her time. The movie highlights the common practice of male authors using ghostwriters, particularly female ones, and taking credit for their work, a practice which Colette bravely fought against.
- Keira Knightley delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Colette, capturing her evolution from naive country girl to independent artist.
- The film explores compelling themes of female empowerment, artistic ownership, and the constraints of societal expectations in Belle Époque France.
- The intricate costume design and lavish sets beautifully recreate the period, immersing the viewer in Colette's world.
- The story is inherently compelling, tracing Colette's journey of self-discovery and her fight for recognition in a male-dominated world.
Fun Facts
- The Château de Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye, where Colette grew up, served as a filming location for the movie, adding authenticity to the portrayal of her childhood.
- Colette's most famous character, Claudine, became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring fashion trends and influencing the perception of young women in France.