Watch The Trial of Joan of Arc

The Trial of Joan of Arc is a 1962 historical drama film directed by Robert Bresson. The movie retells the story of Joan of Arc, a French peasant girl who led the French army to several victories during the Hundred Years' War before being captured by the English soldiers and condemned to death by burning at the stake. Florence Delay stars as Joan of Arc, delivering a powerful and emotional performance that captures the character's steadfast faith and determination. Her portrayal of Joan is not the typical depiction of a saintly, otherworldly figure, but rather a human being with flaws and doubts, struggling to understand and carry out the divine mission she believes she was given.

The movie follows Joan's trial, starting from her interrogation by Bishop Cauchon (Jean-Claude Fourneau) and other church officials who accuse her of heresy and witchcraft. Joan maintains her innocence throughout the trial, staunchly defending her visions and her belief in God's will. The scenes of her interrogations and torture are particularly intense, showing the brutal and unjust treatment that she had to endure.

Roger Honorat plays Jean Beaupère, one of the judges who cross-examines Joan during the trial. His character is portrayed as a sympathetic and conflicted figure, torn between his duty to the church and his growing admiration for Joan's courage and faith.

Bresson's directing style is characteristically austere and understated, with minimal dialogue and sparse music score. He relies on the actors' facial expressions and body language to convey the emotional intensity of the scenes, creating a sense of profound introspection and inner turmoil.

The Trial of Joan of Arc is known for its historical accuracy and attention to detail. Bresson consulted with scholars and researched primary sources to re-create the medieval period, from the costumes and settings to the language and customs. The trial transcripts from the actual trial were used as the basis for the movie's dialogue.

The movie is a powerful exploration of faith, justice, and human dignity. It raises questions about the nature of heroism, sacrifice, and martyrdom, and the meaning of religious fervor and fanaticism. It also serves as a commentary on the institutional power of the church and the role of women in society.

The Trial of Joan of Arc was well-received by critics upon its release, with many praising the performances and the direction. It won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival and has since been recognized as a masterpiece of world cinema.

Overall, The Trial of Joan of Arc is a compelling and thought-provoking movie that provides a nuanced and insightful portrayal of one of history's most iconic figures. It is a must-see for anyone interested in medieval history, religious studies, or cinema as an art form.

The Trial of Joan of Arc is a 1962 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 5 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.