| “Chevalier” (2023) — movie review |
| Today’s review is for the historical drama “Chevalier”, directed by Stephen Williams and starring Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, the violinist, composer, and fencer whose talent pushed him into the highest circles of French society; Samara Weaving as Marie-Josephine, the noblewoman whose voice and affection become central to Bologne’s artistic life; Lucy Boynton as Marie Antoinette, the queen whose early support helps elevate him; Minnie Driver as La Guimard, the opera star who sees him as a threat; Ronkẹ Adékoluẹjo as Nanon, Bologne’s mother, whose presence forces him to confront his past; Marton Csokas as La Boëssière, Joseph’s fencing master; and Alex Fitzalan as Philippe, Marie-Josephine’s jealous and controlling husband. The film dramatizes the life of a man whose accomplishments were nearly erased by history. |
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| Background: I had no prior knowledge of the historic figure, of this movie prior to watching it, and (really) not much knowledge of French history. I purchased the film completely on a whim and had no idea if this was going to be pure fiction or based on a “real” figure in history. A “Chevalier” is a titled knight in France. The “de Saint-Georges” means “of the lineage of Saint-Georges” which was from Bologne’s father’s side. “Chevalier” came out in 2022 (my version says 2023) and immediately drew attention for telling the story of Joseph Bologne, a real historical figure whose music and achievements were largely ignored for centuries. Bologne / Chevalier was a Black (Afro-Caribbean) composer and virtuoso violinist in pre-Revolutionary France, admired by many of his contemporaries. The film didn’t receive any Academy Award nominations, but it was noted for its cultural importance — bringing a forgotten artist back into the conversation. Like most biopics, I’m confident it takes liberties, but it succeeds in highlighting a remarkable life that deserved far more recognition. |
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| Plot: The movie follows Bologne from his childhood in Guadeloupe to his arrival in France, where his father places him in elite training. Bologne excels in fencing, violin, and composition, eventually earning the title “Chevalier de Saint-Georges.” His talent brings him into the orbit of Marie Antoinette, who becomes both patron and friend. Bologne sets his sights on leading the Paris Opera, but racism and court politics stand in his way. His relationship with Marie-Josephine inspires him artistically but puts them both at risk due to her husband’s jealousy and the rigid social rules of the time. As revolutionary tensions rise, Bologne must decide whether to stay close to power or stand with those fighting for change. The film blends romance, ambition, and the early rumblings of revolution. |
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| So, is this movie any good? How’s the acting? The filming / FX? Any problems? And, did I enjoy the film? Short answers: Yes; excellent; stylish and effective; a few; yes. |
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| Any good? Yes. “Chevalier” is a strong, engaging historical drama. It’s not a strict history lesson — it’s a dramatization — but it captures the emotional truth of a man whose brilliance was limited by the society around him. The story is feels clear and the film gives Joseph Bologne the spotlight he appears to deserve. |
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| Acting: Kelvin Harrison Jr. is terrific. He plays Bologne with confidence, frustration, and flashes of anger that feel earned. His performance scenes — especially the violin duel — are some of the best moments in the film. Samara Weaving brings warmth and sadness to Marie-Josephine. Lucy Boynton’s Marie Antoinette is charming but unpredictable, which fits the character. Minnie Driver leans into the role of La Guimard with sharp edges, giving the film a memorable antagonist. Ronkẹ Adékoluẹjo adds emotional weight as Bologne’s mother. The cast overall is very strong. |
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| Filming / FX: The movie looks great. The costumes, sets, and lighting create a vivid sense of the period without feeling stiff. The musical sequences are shot cleanly, letting the performances speak for themselves. The fencing scenes are crisp and easy to follow visually. The score mixes classical elements with modern touches, giving the film a contemporary feel without breaking the period setting. It’s not an FX-heavy movie, but the production design is consistently solid. |
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| Problems: A few. From side reading for this review, I gather the film simplifies parts of Bologne’s life, which may bother viewers who know his history or French history (I know very little of either). Some characters — especially the antagonists — feel a bit too straightforward. The romance, while important to the plot, sometimes leans into melodrama. And the final act moves quickly through major events, leaving some emotional threads less developed. None of this ruins the film, but it’s noticeable. |
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| Did I enjoy the film? Yes. “Chevalier” is well-acted, visually appealing, and tells a story worth hearing. The musical performances alone pretty much make it worth watching. Kelvin Harrison Jr. carries the film with charisma and emotional depth. It’s not a heavy historical epic — it’s a character-driven drama with style and heart. |
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| Final Recommendation: Strong recommendation – particularly as a period piece. “Chevalier” (2022) is an engaging film that brings an interesting historical figure into view. If it takes dramatic liberties – which most films do, it feels like it honors Joseph Bologne’s legacy while introducing his story to a wider audience. Watch it for the performances (particularly the first eight minutes featuring the “dueling violins” with “Mozart“), the music, and the historical significance of a man whose brilliance deserved far more recognition. |
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| Click here (6 March) to see the posts of prior years. I started this blog in late 2009. Daily posting began in late January 2011. Not all of the days in the early years (2009-2010) will have posts. |
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Posted in General Comments, Movie Review, Movies, Reviews, tagged Afro-Caribbean, Alex Fitzalan, Chevalier (2023) — movie review, France, General Comments, Johannes Chrysostomus Wolfgangus Theophilus Mozart, Joseph Bologne - Chevalier de Saint-Georges, Kelvin Harrison Jr, La Boëssière, La Guimard, Lucy Boynton, Marie Antoinette, Marie-Josephine, Marton Csokas, Minnie Driver, Movie Reviews, Nanon, Paris Opera, Racism, Reviews, Ronkẹ Adékoluẹjo, Samara Weaving, Stephen Williams, Strong Movie Recommendation on March 6, 2026| Leave a Comment »
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