The Taking of Power by Louis XIV [Criterion Collection]

Rating	Not Available
Format	DVD
Year Released	1966
Run Time	100 min
Stars	Jean-Marie Patte, Raymond Jourdan, Katharina Renn, Silvagni, Pierre Barrat
Director	Roberto Rossellini
Color	Made for TV, Color
Editor	Armand Ridel

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Expected Release Date: Jan 13, 2009
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Given the opportunity to turn out a Sacha Guitry-style spectacle, director Roberto Rossellini charts his own neorealist course for The Rise of Louis XIV. It's as if a documentary cameraman was let loose in the royal court of the 17th Century Sun King, here played by Jean-Marie Patte. The use of unfamiliar actors in the major roles adds to the film's realism. Though shown to be the product of a decadent lifestyle, Louis is depicted as being trapped by his royalty, forced in spite of himself to be a raconteur and trendsetter. The Rise of Louis XIV was one of several innovative films made for French television by the Italian Rossellini. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide