Watch Mademoiselle Paradis

Mademoiselle Paradis is a 2017 historical drama movie set in 18th-century Vienna that tells the story of Maria Theresia Paradis (Maria Dragus), a young blind pianist, who seeks an unconventional treatment from mesmerist Franz Anton Mesmer (Devid Striesow) to restore her sight. Directed by Austrian filmmaker Barbara Albert, the movie is inspired by true events and based on the novel "The Empress of the Night" by Christine Wunnicke.

The movie takes us back to Vienna in 1777, where the 18-year-old Paradis, a talented pianist, and singer, is encouraged by her ambitious parents, Leopold and Maria Theresia Paradis (played by Johanna Orsini-Rosenberg and Maresi Riegner), to undergo experimental medical treatments to cure her blindness. The movie sets the tone right from the beginning, as we see Paradis tormented by her inability to see the beauty around her and haunted by the voices of her parents who continuously tell her she is not good enough because of her disability.

Enter Franz Anton Mesmer, a mesmerist who has become a sensation in Vienna due to his ability to treat patients with his unconventional methods. Mesmer, played brilliantly by Striesow, is initially skeptical about the possibility of curing Paradis but is intrigued by her unique case. Mesmer's methods involve a series of complex procedures that he believes would allow Paradis to see again. The mesmerizing sequences of Paradis undergoing these treatments, such as when she is surrounded by a group of dancers and musicians, are ethereal.

As Paradis begins to show signs of improvement, Mesmer becomes excited and is convinced that his theories are working. However, as the movie progresses, we begin to see the darker side of Mesmer's personality. He becomes obsessive and intrusive as he tries to understand the workings of Paradis's mind. He becomes possessive of his patient, who seems to have fallen in love with him. The movie does not shy away from showing the twisted dynamics of the relationship between Paradis and Mesmer, which is fraught with power imbalances and unethical practices.

The performances in Mademoiselle Paradis are top-notch, with Dragus delivering a nuanced and sensitive portrayal of a young woman who is both vulnerable and strong-willed. Mesmer is portrayed brilliantly by Striesow, who effortlessly captures the hypnotic personality of Mesmer and gives the movie its heart.

The movie does an excellent job of not romanticizing the past and highlights the horrific treatment of people with disabilities in the 18th century. The movie delves into the themes of gender, social class, and power dynamics, which are topical and relevant in modern times.

Mademoiselle Paradis is a visually stunning film with a haunting score that complements the story's somber tone. Barbara Albert's direction is masterful, and she succeeds in creating a bleak and immersive atmosphere that captures the mood of the era. The movie's ending is ambiguous but fitting, leaving the audience with much to think about.

In conclusion, Mademoiselle Paradis is an exquisite historical drama that is more than a biopic. It is a story about the struggles of a disabled woman trying to find her place in the world, and the price she is willing to pay to achieve her dreams. It raises important questions about the role of medicine, ethics, and humanity in our society. This movie is a must-watch for anyone who loves and appreciates the art of cinema.

Mademoiselle Paradis is a 2017 history movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.