The Duellists (1977)
1977
100 Minutes
In 1800, as Napoleon Bonaparte rises to power in France, a rivalry erupts between Armand and Gabriel, two lieutenants in the French Army, over a perceived insult. For over a decade, they engage in...
User Review
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WHAT I LIKED: There sure is a lot to admire in Ridley Scott's award-winning theatrical debut 'The Duellists,' as it's clearly a film made with a lot of care and confident consideration. Yes in portraying his thematically significant story through the eyes of such well-realised and beautiful visuals, Scott shows off a wealth of talent and broadcasts his ideas with beautiful intent and purpose. Match that with a very snappy and often rather witty script as well as a number of great performances and you've got yourself a technically impressive and frequently smile-ensuing film.
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE: On a more serious emotional level however, Scott fails to build a single investing scene as he's so eager to snap to the next breathtaking visual and artistic cut. Unfortunately this not only means you can't attach to the overall story, it also means any in-the-moment tension is lost in exchange for style.
VERDICT: An impressive, witty and confident debut from Ridley Scott - it's a shame 'The Duellists' lacks the ability to truly engage beyond its technical splendour.0 member like this review.
