Movies

Review: A bit fizzy with romantic intrigue, ‘Widow Clicquot’ raises a glass to a woman innovator

BBG News

As a movie reviewer with a deep appreciation for both history and wine, I was thoroughly captivated by “Widow Clicquot,” a biopic that brings to life the incredible story of Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin, the trailblazing entrepreneur and winemaker who inherited the Veuve Clicquot Champagne empire in 1805 at just 27 years old.

Many people in the United States, plus wine connoisseurs globally, recognize Veuve Clicquot Champagnes for their iconic marigold bottles symbolizing festivity and affluence. However, those not proficient in French might overlook the complete brand name, thereby missing out on the full background.

In simpler terms, the French term “veuve” translates to “widow.” The title of both the wine and the film is this name. “Widow Clicquot” is a biographical movie based on Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin (acted by Haley Bennett). When she was just 27 years old in 1805, she assumed control over her husband François’s (Tom Sturridge) wine business after his demise. Becoming a widow marked the beginning of her journey as one of France’s pioneering female entrepreneurs and an esteemed figure in their history.

As a passionate cinema enthusiast, I’d describe it this way: “The Widow Clicquot,” a captivating film adaptation, is brought to life by the skilled hands of Erin Dignam and Christopher Monger. They meticulously crafted this masterpiece from Tilar J. Mazzeo’s 2008 book of the same name. The screenplay brilliantly encapsulates the pivotal moments while gracefully brushing over intricate details, offering Thomas Napper ample creative freedom to infuse the film with dreamlike scenes. This magnificent production weaves together history and poetry in a breathtaking tapestry, unraveling Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin’s compelling story through an innovative nonlinear narrative. The opening scenes are deeply romantic, while her transformation into a powerful businesswoman unfolds more pragmatically – an intriguing journey of love and power.

Napper, who has previously directed only one film, plays a significant role as the second-unit director in Joe Wright’s movies. As a result, “Widow Clicquot,” which he directs and is filmed by Caroline Champetier, bears a striking resemblance to Wright’s work – not just because it features Wright’s partner, Bennett, who has appeared in several of his films, but also due to Napper’s direction that echoes Wright’s distinctive aesthetic. This sensual and earthy style, reminiscent of “Pride & Prejudice” (2005), is deeply connected to the land and its changing seasons.

The land, specifically her late husband’s vineyards, serves as the foundation for Barbe-Nicole’s journey towards building one of France’s most renowned Champagne empires. Following her husband’s passing, she is approached by Monsieur Moët (Nicholas Farrell) with an offer to sell the vineyards. Despite her father-in-law, Philippe’s (Ben Miles), disapproval and her new role’s limitations, Barbe-Nicole has the authority as the inheritor to make decisions regarding the property. Philippe grants her a brief trial period to demonstrate her abilities in managing the vineyard according to her vision. In an attempt to streamline operations, she eliminates the hierarchies within the labor force, initially met with resistance from her vineyard supervisors.

Barbe-Nicole persists in bringing François’ winemaking aspirations to life on their land, advancing steadily and forming an alliance with Louis Bohne (Sam Riley), a trusted wine merchant and confidant of her deceased husband. For the vineyard to prosper, Barbe-Nicole depends on Louis to help bypass Napoleonic trade restrictions and transport her valuable grapes. Their partnership results in a groundbreaking Champagne production method that creates a sensation in St. Petersburg, thanks to Louis’ savvy marketing skills. As they work together, their bond deepens, raising eyebrows among the townsfolk regarding the young widow.

Throughout this time, her mind keeps going back to François, bringing up recollections that add depth to the narrative. At first glance, it appears they enjoyed a nearly perfect existence filled with rural charm and sensual indulgence in wine. François was like an enchanting, unconventional winemaker who relaxed among the grapes, instructing his spouse on wine tasting right in bed. However, her recollections paint a more complex picture of him: his struggles, torment, the hardships they faced together, and the intricacies surrounding his demise.

In the compact 90-minute movie, there’s a lot to process about Barbe-Nicole’s story, with the script placing greater emphasis on her emotional journey than her business ventures. Unfortunately, her groundbreaking advancements in winemaking are given less attention, and instead, the film concentrates more on the men in her life. Despite this abbreviated approach, “Widow Clicquot” is an admirable tribute to the remarkable woman behind one of the world’s most renowned Champagne brands.

Katie Walsh is a Tribune News Service film critic.

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2024-07-22 23:33

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