9 Documentaries about Joan of Arc
Exploring the Life of a Legendary Heroine
Joan of Arc stands as one of history's most inspiring and enigmatic figures, whose life and legacy have fascinated scholars and storytellers alike. Known for her role in the Hundred Years' War, her visions, and ultimate martyrdom, Joan's journey from a humble peasant girl to a national heroine and saint is a compelling tale of faith, courage, and perseverance.
For those looking to explore this remarkable story through film, documentaries offer a rich and detailed portrayal of Joan's life and times. These films capture different aspects of her character and the historical context, providing a comprehensive look at why Joan of Arc continues to be a subject of admiration and study across the world.
1) The Passion of Joan of Arc (1928)
"The Passion of Joan of Arc" is a silent film directed by Carl Theodor Dreyer. The movie meticulously follows the trial of Joan of Arc, drawing from the actual historical record of her trial.
Renée Jeanne Falconetti stars as Joan of Arc, delivering a performance that is highly praised for its emotional depth and intensity.
Dreyer's direction is innovative, using close-ups and unconventional angles to highlight the characters' emotions, making the movie a cornerstone of silent cinema. The film doesn’t rely on dialogue but on powerful visual storytelling.
The cinematography and Falconetti's portrayal collectively create a poignant representation of Joan's suffering and resilience. The film remains influential for its unique style and has been preserved as a significant piece of film history.
For more details, visit the IMDb page or the Wikipedia page.
2) Joan of Arc (1948)
Joan of Arc (1948) is a hagiographic epic film directed by Victor Fleming. Ingrid Bergman stars in the title role, delivering a compelling portrayal of the French war heroine and religious icon.
The movie is based on the Broadway play "Joan of Lorraine" by Maxwell Anderson, who also adapted the screenplay with Andrew Solt. This adaptation brings to screen the life and trials of Joan, focusing on her faith and determination.
Victor Fleming, known for directing classics such as "Gone with the Wind," helms this project with a focus on authenticity and emotional depth. The film explores Joan's journey from a humble village girl to a revered war figure.
Joan of Arc (1948) has been noted for its strong performances, particularly that of Bergman, whose interpretation of Joan earned critical acclaim. The film itself stands as a significant portrayal of one of history's most fascinating figures.
For more information, visit IMDb.
3) Saint Joan (1957)
"Saint Joan" (1957) is a historical drama adapted from George Bernard Shaw's 1923 play about Joan of Arc.
Directed by Otto Preminger, the film begins with a gripping last scene that sets the stage for a long flashback.
Jean Seberg stars as Joan of Arc, alongside Richard Widmark and Richard Todd, to depict the life and trial of the French heroine.
It illustrates Joan's journey from a seventeen-year-old peasant girl to the leader of the French Army and her eventual execution as a heretic.
The screenplay was restructured by Graham Greene, adding depth to Shaw's original narrative.
This adaptation provides a compelling look at the challenges Joan faced against societal and religious norms.
For more information, visit IMDb or Wikipedia.
4) Joan the Maid (1994)
"Joan the Maid" (1994) is a French historical film directed by Jacques Rivette. This film presents a thorough examination of Joan of Arc's life from the French perspective.
The movie is divided into two parts: "Joan the Maid, Part 1: The Battles" and "Joan the Maid, Part 2: The Prisons." Each part delves into distinct phases of Joan's life, from her military campaigns to her imprisonment.
The film is known for its detailed and realistic portrayal. Unlike many other adaptations, it avoids romanticizing her story, instead focusing on her humanity and the harsh realities she faced.
With a total running time of around five and a half hours, "Joan the Maid" offers an exhaustive narrative. The recent 4K restoration has brought renewed attention to this cinematic work, solidifying its place as a significant adaptation of Joan of Arc's legacy.
This film can be found on IMDb for more detailed information. Joan the Maid (1994) on IMDb
5) The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc (1999)
"The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc" (1999) is a historical drama film directed by Luc Besson. The film stars Milla Jovovich as Joan of Arc, supported by an ensemble cast including John Malkovich, Faye Dunaway, and Dustin Hoffman. It portrays Joan's journey from a young girl with divine visions to a leader of the French army.
The movie is set against the backdrop of the Hundred Years' War, focusing on Joan's role in liberating France from English occupation. It provides an intense and dramatic interpretation of her visions and fervor, emphasizing her unwavering faith and determination.
Luc Besson's direction brings a visually compelling narrative, complemented by the musical score composed by Éric Serra. The performances, especially by Jovovich, highlight the emotional and psychological complexities of Joan.
Though the film has received mixed reviews, with some critics describing it as heavy-handed, it remains a notable cinematic take on Joan of Arc's legendary life. The realism and visual style elevate the storytelling, making it a significant entry in the genre of historical dramas.
For more information, visit IMDb.
6) Joan of Arc (2005)
Directed by Pamela Mason Wagner, "Joan of Arc" (2005) is a TV movie that presents an in-depth look at the life of the French heroine.
Francis Dumaurier, Michal Havelka, Tomás Karger, and VladimĂr Marek star in this docudrama.
The film explores the rise of this peasant girl who goes on to lead the French army and make a significant impact on the course of history.
The movie is based on Joan’s own testimony, offering a unique perspective on her experiences and motivations.
The blend of historical facts and personal narratives paints a complete picture of her incredible journey.
For more information, visit the IMDb page.
7) Joan of Arc: God's Warrior (2015)
"Joan of Arc: God's Warrior" (2015) is a detailed and engaging documentary directed by Lucy Swingler and hosted by Dr. Helen Castor. This film delves into the life and death of Joan of Arc, highlighting her role as a female warrior in an era that thought women couldn’t fight.
The documentary provides a comprehensive look at Joan's extraordinary feats, including her pivotal role in lifting the siege of Orleans. Dr. Helen Castor uses historical manuscripts to paint a vivid picture of Joan's life and her significant contributions to French history.
The narrative explores the intersection between Joan's faith and her military ambitions, offering insights into how belief systems can drive individuals to accomplish monumental tasks. Dr. Castor's expertise provides rich context and a deeper understanding of Joan's motivations and impact.
Viewers are taken on a journey through the medieval landscape in which Joan lived, allowing a closer look at the social and political dynamics of the time. The film effectively conveys Joan's enduring legacy in a straightforward and factual manner.
More Information: IMDb.
8) Joan of Arc (2019)
Joan of Arc (2019) is a French drama directed by Bruno Dumont.
Lise Leplat Prudhomme plays the role of the young Joan, leading the French army due to her strong belief that God has chosen her for this mission.
This film is a sequel to "Jeannette: The Childhood of Joan of Arc," depicting her life from her youth to her trial.
The movie was screened at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section, showcasing its artistic approach.
The film presents a historical narrative focusing on Joan's trials and tribulations.
For more details on Joan of Arc (2019), visit the Joan of Arc (2019) IMDb page.
9) The Trial of Joan of Arc (1962)
Robert Bresson's 1962 film, The Trial of Joan of Arc, offers a minimalist and intense portrayal of Joan's final days. Based on actual trial transcripts and contemporaneous documents, this French historical drama focuses on Joan's trial for heresy in 1431.
Florence Delay takes on the role of Joan of Arc, bringing a solemn and authentic performance to the screen. The film is notable for its stark, simplistic style, typical of Bresson's work, which emphasizes the gravity of Joan's predicament.
The film's length is a concise 65 minutes, making it a tightly packed retelling. Its language is primarily French, with some English. Shot in black and white, the cinematography complements the minimalist approach, stripping away the embellishments common in other historical dramas.
The Trial of Joan of Arc is celebrated for its focus on historical accuracy and emotional depth. Bresson's adaptation stands apart from other Joan of Arc films for its unique take on her story, crystallizing the themes of faith, conviction, and tragedy.
For further details, visit IMDb.
The Life of Joan of Arc
Joan of Arc, celebrated as a national heroine of France and a Roman Catholic saint, rose from humble beginnings to lead French forces to several important victories during the Hundred Years' War. Her life, marked by her divine visions, military leadership, and tragic execution, remains a poignant story of courage and faith.
Early Years
Joan of Arc was born around 1412 in Domrémy, a village in the northeastern part of France. Her parents were Jacques d'Arc and Isabelle Romée, who were modest farmers. She grew up during a tumultuous period, as France was embroiled in the Hundred Years' War with England.
From a young age, Joan was known for her piety and deep religious convictions. She frequently attended church and displayed a strong sense of duty to her faith. Despite her simple upbringing, she developed a profound belief that she had a divine mission to save France.
Her Visions
At the age of 13, Joan began to experience visions and hear voices, which she believed were sent by God. These voices, which included saints like Michael, Catherine, and Margaret, instructed her to support Charles VII and help drive the English out of France.
She initially kept these experiences private but later felt compelled to act on them. By 1428, the voices had become more insistent, urging her to take immediate action. She approached local leaders, convincing them of her divine mission, and eventually gained an audience with Charles VII.
Military Campaigns
Joan's first significant military involvement came in 1429, when she led French troops to lift the Siege of Orléans. She donned armor, wielded a banner, and inspired soldiers with her presence and confidence. This victory was a turning point in the war, bolstering French morale and leading to further successes.
Following Orléans, Joan participated in several important campaigns, including the Battle of Patay and the Loire Campaign. Her efforts culminated in the coronation of Charles VII at Reims Cathedral, fulfilling her prophecy. Despite her lack of formal military training, Joan's leadership and faith instilled a renewed sense of purpose in the French forces.
Trial and Execution
In 1430, Joan was captured by Burgundian forces allied with the English. She was handed over to the English and put on trial for charges including heresy and witchcraft. The trial, heavily influenced by political motives, focused on discrediting her divine claims and her role in military activities.
Despite her eloquence and steadfastness, Joan was convicted and sentenced to death. On May 30, 1431, she was burned at the stake in Rouen. Her execution was intended to undermine her legacy, but it only solidified her status as a martyr. In 1456, a posthumous retrial declared her innocent, and she was canonized as a saint in 1920.
Historical Impact
Joan of Arc's influence extends beyond her role in the Hundred Years' War, affecting French national identity, Church traditions, and cultural symbolism.
Joan of Arc in French History
Joan of Arc is a central figure in French history. Born in 1412 in Domrémy, she emerged as a pivotal leader during the Hundred Years' War. At just 17, she led French troops to critical victories against the English, notably at the Siege of Orléans. Her success not only boosted French morale but also played a crucial role in the eventual coronation of Charles VII. Her involvement reshaped the course of the war, arguably altering the history of France. Today, she remains a symbol of national unity and resilience.
Church Canonization
Joan of Arc's ecclesiastical recognition is significant. In 1431, she was executed by burning at the stake, accused of heresy. However, nearly five centuries later, the Church revisited her trial. In 1909, Pope Pius X beatified her, and by 1920, she was canonized by Pope Benedict XV. This canonization not only elevated her to sainthood but also symbolized a change in the Church's view of nationalism and female leadership. She is now one of the patron saints of France, with her feast day celebrated on May 30.
Legacy and Symbolism
Joan of Arc's legacy transcends her military achievements. She is a potent symbol of courage, faith, and determination. Writers, artists, and filmmakers have immortalized her story, emphasizing themes of divine guidance and unwavering conviction. Her image has been used variously in political movements, feminist campaigns, and religious iconography. Joan of Arc stands as a beacon of inspiration, embodying the power of conviction in the face of adversity. Her historical and cultural relevance continues to resonate across centuries and borders.
