Delusions of Grandeur
Overview
Don Sallust is the minister of the King of Spain. Being disingenuous, hypocritical, greedy and collecting the taxes for himself, he is hated by the people he oppresses. Accused by The Queen, a beautiful princess Bavarian, of having an illegitimate child to one of her maids of honor, he was stripped of his duties and ordered to retire to a monastery.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
Delusions of Grandeur is a loose adaptation of Victor Hugo's play 'Ruy Blas'. The film uses historical setting to comment on contemporary social and political issues, albeit in a light-hearted, comedic manner. It reflects a broader trend of satirical comedies popular in French cinema during the 1970s, often poking fun at authority and social conventions.
- Louis de Funès' comedic performance is legendary, showcasing his physical humor and impeccable timing.
- The film is a clever satire of 17th-century French court life, lampooning the vanity, corruption, and social hierarchies of the era.
- The ensemble cast delivers strong performances, complementing de Funès' manic energy and adding depth to the comedic situations.
- It's a visually rich film, with lavish costumes and set designs that transport the viewer to the world of Molière's plays.
Fun Facts
- The film was originally intended to star Bourvil alongside Louis de Funès, but Bourvil sadly passed away before filming began, leading to the casting of Yves Montand.
- The film features several references to Molière's plays, adding another layer of comedic and cultural depth.
- The costume and set designs were meticulously researched to accurately reflect the 17th-century French court, contributing to the film's immersive atmosphere.