The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc (1999)

VHS CASE/ SIDE

Length of film:  158 Minutes

Rated: 15

Genre: War, History, Drama

Director: Luc Besson

Starring: Milla Jovovich, John Malkovich, Rab Affleck, Stéphane Algoud, Andrew Birkin, Vincent Cassel, Dustin Hoffman, Faye Dunaway, Tchéky Karyo

IMDB Rank: 6.4/ 10

Part 1 Time:  100 Minutes

Part 2 Time:   58 Minutes

Where does the first part end? Joan of Arc (Milla Jovovich) successfully leads the French army’s second attack on the Orléans stronghold called Tourelles. After the successful siege, Joan kneels to ask God for forgiveness but is interrupted by Dunois (Tchéky Karyo).

Final line of dialogue on the first part: “Thousands of English are forming up on the far side of the river. I think we should count our men and get ready,” states Dunois.

First line of dialogue on the second part: The English army has regrouped. The French army meets them across an open field. Joan states “I’ll go,” as she rides alone towards the English army.

How jarring is it when the first part ends? Somewhat, Joan of Arc has led the French army to a major victory in the Hundred Year War, turning the tide in the favour of France.

Which part is better? The battle sequences and story follow a similar narrative pattern to the film Braveheart (1995), but is less successful in its delivery. Part one highlights Joan’s rise within the French army and her divine mission. Part two takes a more psychological tone as Joan begins to question herself and her divine mission while in captivity. Part one is undeniably better as the pacing of the film is much more fluid and showcases a female warrior who transcended gender roles.

Academy Awards: None