Watch Impromptu

Impromptu is a romantic comedy-drama that tells the story of the real-life affair between the celebrated author George Sand (played by Judy Davis) and the composer Frédéric Chopin (played by Hugh Grant). Set in the 19th century, the film revolves around a group of artistic and intellectual friends who meet regularly for salons at the home of the English writer Alfred de Musset (played by Mandy Patinkin) in Paris.

The film opens with George Sand arriving in Paris with her two children, seeking to establish herself as a writer and escape the stifling conventions of her upper-class background. She is initially dismissed by the male-dominated literary establishment, but she begins to gain fame with the publication of her novel Indiana. At one of de Musset’s salons, Sand is introduced to Chopin, who is initially aloof but is drawn to her unconventional nature and soon falls in love with her.

However, Sand’s attempts to pursue a relationship with Chopin are complicated by a number of obstacles. First, Chopin is suffering from tuberculosis, which makes it difficult for him to leave his house or perform in public. Second, Sand is still married, although estranged from her husband, and her affair with Chopin threatens to scandalize her social circle. Third, Sand’s feminist beliefs clash with Chopin’s traditional views on gender roles, leading to a number of heated arguments.

As the film progresses, Sand and Chopin struggle to balance their romance with their respective careers and personal obstacles. Sand is plagued by writer’s block, and Chopin is increasingly frail and dependent on Sand’s care. Meanwhile, their affair attracts the attention of the gossip-hungry press, and Sand’s relationship with Chopin brings her into conflict with her former lover, the literary critic Sainte-Beuve (played by Julian Sands).

Despite these challenges, Sand and Chopin continue to be drawn to each other, and their love affair inspires some of Chopin’s most famous compositions. However, as Chopin’s health deteriorates and Sand’s personal and professional struggles mount, their relationship becomes increasingly strained. In the final act of the film, Sand is forced to confront the consequences of her choices and decide whether to prioritize her own career and independence or her love for Chopin.

Impromptu is a beautifully shot and expertly acted film that captures the passion and drama of one of the great love affairs of the 19th century. Judy Davis is particularly impressive in her portrayal of George Sand, capturing both her fierce independence and her vulnerability as a woman struggling to balance her desire for love with her artistic ambitions. Hugh Grant is also excellent as Chopin, conveying both his artistic genius and his physical frailty with understated grace. The supporting cast, including Mandy Patinkin, Julian Sands, and Bernadette Peters, is also excellent, adding depth and humor to the film’s many social and artistic intrigues.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its depiction of the artistic and intellectual milieu of 19th century Paris, with its salons, cafes, and colorful characters. Director James Lapine and cinematographer Bruno de Keyzer capture the period’s opulence and sophistication with gorgeous sets, costumes, and locations, while also conveying the grit and squalor of life for the less fortunate. The film’s music, comprising Chopin’s famous piano pieces as well as original compositions by Thomas Newman, also adds to the film’s romantic and dramatic atmosphere.

Overall, Impromptu is a must-see film for fans of period dramas, romantic comedies, and historical biopics. Its cast, direction, and writing are all top-notch, and the film’s exploration of the complex relationship between art and love is both insightful and poignant.

Impromptu is a 1990 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.