Writer-director Céline Sciamma's Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a moving story. With a genuine, recognisable sense of human desire, it's embroiled with obsession, fear and doubt.
Set in Brittany in 1760, Portrait of a Lady on Fire recounts a tale of forbidden love, as painter Marianne is commissioned to create a portrait of reluctant bride-to-be Heloise. Meeting under the guise of companionship, the slow-burning infatuation between the two displays no immediate attraction or lust, but rather lies in the stolen glances, discovering something new, all while each know of their place in society and what is expected of them.
From the chemistry between the all-female cast to the masterful direction, every element works in harmony. This is about seeing and being seen – the emotional as much as the physical – and this story goes beyond the romance.
A beautiful and moving film, instantly becoming an all-time great for many.
Read a feature review of Portrait of a Lady on Fire from Reel Steel.
Screening as part of Showroom’s LGBTQ+ History Month season, as selected by a poll of Showroom staff’s favourite LGBTQ+ films.
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