A Pyramide Films Picture, Written and Directed by Céline Sciamma.
This is a film full of love, beauty, sensuality, art, and heartbreak. It is one of the most beautiful films I’ve seen in years, in both the story and the visuals.
From a cinematography stand point, this is surely a front runner for awards, with the use of the stunning and rugged landscape brilliantly representing the turmoil of the characters.
Director Céline Sciamma brings a truly unique voice to this french language film, and the main thing I feel she adds is that while the sexual tension in this film is intense and there is a lot of sexuality, she focuses on what these characters are feeling instead of just using it as a chance to get them naked to sell tickets.
The two romantic leads have some of the most simmering chemistry that I have seen for years, and it is used to full extent here. They are great together, but they also each have their distinct personalities and story. Both Noemie Merlant and Adèle Haenel are beautiful and visually striking, and both have extremely expressive faces. You can see everything they are feeling by just looking at them, and this is extremely powerful.
Portrait of a Lady on Fire should be seen the world around and praised for its splendour. One of the best films of the year.
Rating = 4.5/5
Howe's World of Film and TV 