The Three Musketeers touches on the timeless themes of integrity, a sense of duty and brotherhood but also includes kick-ass sword fights and more than its fair share of damsels in distress. With this new (2023) take on the classic, The Three Musketeers – Part I: D’Artagnan and Part 2: Milady, it’s fitting to be shepherded by French director and second-generation movie man Martin Bourboulon.

These two films were major productions in France and as such feature extravagant budgets and large casts with big stars. In keeping with its country of origin, the accuracy of its look is paramount and Bourboulon and cinematographer Nicolas Bolduc were unafraid to set the action in dark and dangerous surroundings. They have created a world best seen in a very dark room so you can revel in the minute detail. It is also unsentimental when dispatching some of its main characters.

Having never had an issue with sub-titles, it must be noted that this is a work that was made for many markets in the world and as such the act of reading to keep up is very easy as the screen is never overcrowded with text. The emotional content is also very apparent by the actor’s skill. Thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish, this level of entertainment demands the viewing of its sister part two Milady, which will be released in Aussie cinemas June 6!
Rob Hudson
www.facebook.com/Palacecinemas/

The tale begins when a sub called the Titan needs to pick up a group of French solders from a Syrian coastline and evade detection from both an Iranian frigate sharing the waters and Syrian ground troops. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the extremes the crew have to go through to avoid detection and how tightly knit the crew have to be. It also provides some funny moments as insight into the crews behaviour to remain sane is provided.

As a new player comes onto the scene, the tension of the mission ramps up exponentially. This draws you in with overwhelming feelings of claustrophobia and impending peril. As the game of cat and mouse escalates and more weapons technology is introduced, it expands your perception of the actual dangers presented to both sides of the conflict. After this mission, the film gives you information on the obsessive lives of the submariners. A life where the next assignment is never far from their mind.

In the film’s second half, the danger to the crew and the world at large escalates into events that could have worldwide consequences. Fans of the submarine genre will find much to like here and even those that are indifferent to war movies will enjoy the psychological and political battles that underline and inform most of the action. It’s a compelling insight to a very rare breed of modern day soldier.

The Wolf’s Call is currently screening at the Alliance Française French Film Festival.

31st Alliance Française French Film Festival
18 March-14 April
Palace Barracks & Palace James Street
www.affrenchfilmfestival.org

Out of a mix of petulance and curiosity, she impulsively creates a fake Facebook profile in which to keep an eye on him: she’s ‘Clara’, vivacious, blonde… and 24 years old. He doesn’t take the bait, but his close friend (François Civil) does, and their online connection soon becomes flirtatious. Titillated by the opportunity of being “young again”, Claire’s deceptions lead both of her identities into increasingly dangerous territory.

Part psychological drama, part thriller, this remarkable film based on the novel by Camille Laurens explores contemporary issues with sensitivity and intelligence and shows Binoche at her phenomenal best.

Who You Think I Am will be released in Australian Cinemas August 1!
www.palacefilms.com.au/whoyouthinkiam