by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
Who is Joseph Bologne? No one would blame you for not knowing. Based on information presented in the latest biopic Chevalier, his life and legacy were banished from French history due to Napoleon’s doing. But why is this man worthy of having a Hollywood film based around his life? Bologne was Chevalier de Saint-Georges. He was a legendary composer. His works rivaled some of the most iconic and greatest musicians of all time. Violin virtuoso. French revolutionary. There is so much to his story in love, war, and music. Luckily, we do have Chevalier to do justice to Bologne’s true story.
How does screenwriter Stefani Robinson bring this forgotten legend of music and French history to life? There are a few high points in the script, and a few low points as well. First off, this story is just too engaging and unbelievable to not get you somewhat invested. You might be relying on the real, incredible story, but there still remain some elements that stand out and shape it. The film is structured with an incredible opening hook of a scene. Bologne versus Mozart. This is perfectly staged and impressively impactful. But much of the script leans heavily into biopic tropes that makes it feel less significant than it should. There are romantic elements which are not engaging in a film centered around a virtuoso composer who also happened to be a revolutionary.
But is Robinson able to do right by the significance of this story? There are plenty of moments that capture the racial tensions that are embedded in the film. The subject being son of a slave and plantation owner certainly sets the stage for a tragic and impactful story. There is plenty of overt racism portrayed in the film, but there are some other interesting layers as well, including how other Black characters see Bologne as he lives a life in higher white society. Additionally, there are plenty of moments that capture the societal tensions that led to the French Revolution. This is not the most unique and impactful film when it comes to tackling sensitive issues, but it does a respectable job.
How does director Stephen Williams translate this story to the big screen? First off, the technical aspects deliver. The production design, costumes, and hairstyling are top notch. For a period piece like this, having all of those aspects excelling elevates the quality and the ability for the audience to be absorbed in the experience. The camera work is quite delightful as well. It might not reach Barry Lyndon level of beauty, but the visuals are top-notch. Even if the story is not as engaging or dynamic as it could be, those other aspects make it worthwhile. There is a smooth and swift approach to the storytelling, which is in no small part to the direction of Williams.
What are the biggest highlights of the film? Kelvin Harrison Jr. is a star. He has done great work in Luce and Waves, but this is a leading performance that will get him some great attention. There is a confidence that matches such a talented creator. His presence is second to none, as he is the magnetic anchor for the whole film. There are some other strong turns from young talented performers like Samara Weaving and Lucy Boynton. Then there is Marton Csokas. His face is familiar, and his menace will be too. This character actor might be playing a one-dimensional bad guy, but it sells it well.
Is Chevalier a worthwhile biopic highlighting this significant but forgotten figure? It might lean into plenty of biopic tropes and cliches, but there is some greatness there too. The overall visuals from both the camera and all the designs are quite exquisite. Harrison’s performance and the music are both reasons enough to check out this new period flick.
Score: 7/10
Chevalier is currently playing in theaters
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