‘Scarlet’ Review – A Moving Period Romance Drama Told With Care

In the enchanting and evocative film Scarlet directed by Pietro Marcello, we are transported to rural France, where a young girl is raised by her father in a seemingly idyllic setting. As she grows up, her dreams and desires expand, and she yearns for something more than the simplicity of her surroundings. It is in this delicate balance between longing and reality that Scarlet weaves its narrative.

At the center of this captivating tale are the lead performances by Juliette Jouan and Louis Garrel. Their portrayal of the lonely woman and the rakish young pilot is nothing short of electrifying. From the moment they share the screen, their chemistry ignites, creating a palpable energy that resonates throughout the entire film. Jouan and Garrel’s performances are undoubtedly among the best of the year, and their ability to work magic off each other is truly a delight to behold. They effortlessly sell every scene they inhabit, infusing the story with a raw emotional power. Their performances feel like the very definition of the phrase “lightning in a bottle.”

Marcello’s direction in Scarlet is bold yet simplistic, allowing the film’s essence to shine through. The narrative unfolds organically, revealing itself in a natural rhythm that mirrors the ebb and flow of life. The director’s ability to balance moments of quiet introspection with moments of heightened intensity is commendable. Every frame feels deliberate, every shot carefully composed, and the result is a visually stunning experience.

The cinematography by Marco Graziaplena adds another layer of beauty to the film. The lush landscapes of rural France are captured with breathtaking precision, evoking a sense of both nostalgia and longing. The use of light and shadow creates a poetic atmosphere that complements the emotional depth of the story. Graziaplena’s work is truly exceptional, enhancing the visual storytelling and drawing the audience deeper into the world of Scarlet. It’s easily one of the best looking films of the year. It truly feels like you’re watching a film that was shot decades ago in all of the best ways.

However, amidst the film’s many strengths, there are a couple of noticeable flaws that prevent it from reaching its full potential. The first is the issue of pacing. At times, Scarlet feels excessively long, with certain scenes lingering for what seems like an eternity. This sluggish pacing can test the patience of the audience and detract from the overall impact of the story. Tighter editing and a more judicious use of scene lengths could have enhanced the film’s flow and made it a more engaging experience.

Another weakness lies in the originality of the story. While Scarlet offers a compelling exploration of a woman’s dreams and desires, it doesn’t break new ground thematically. The narrative treads familiar territory, following a trajectory that is somewhat predictable. Although the film’s execution is commendable, the story itself doesn’t offer much in terms of originality or surprise, which was more than a little disappointing considering just how strong the film is on a technical level. While it is still engaging and emotionally resonant, some viewers may find themselves longing for a more innovative narrative approach.

Despite these shortcomings, Scarlet remains a moving and thought-provoking film. Its strong performances, captivating direction, and stunning cinematography create a mesmerizing cinematic experience. Marcello’s ability to capture the essence of longing and the complexities of human connection is undeniably powerful. While it may not be a groundbreaking masterpiece, Scarlet is a testament to the talent and vision of its director and the cast. It is a film that will leave a lasting impression, inviting audiences to reflect on their own dreams and the paths they choose to pursue.

Scarlet debuts exclusively in theaters in New York on June 9, 2023 courtesy of Kino Lorber. The film will expand to additional cities in the following weeks. Check the full release schedule here. 

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3WGgFXZSC10]