Unveiling “The President’s Wife”: Catherine Deneuve’s Captivating Performance
In an era where political biopics flourish, The President’s Wife emerges as a standout, showcasing the magnificent Catherine Deneuve in the role of Bernadette Chirac, the formidable wife of former French President Jacques Chirac, portrayed by Michel Vuillermoz. Directed by Léa Domnach, this film, originally titled “Bernadette” in France, brings a fresh perspective to biographical storytelling.
A Glimpse into Bernadette’s World
Catherine Deneuve is an icon of French cinema, known for her expressive prowess. Her performance in The President’s Wife is no exception. Deneuve’s facial expressions, whether it’s a fleeting smile or a piercing glare, convey a depth of emotion that few can match. Fans of her past work will recognize her brilliance in films like Belle du Jour and Repulsion, as well as her recent collaboration with acclaimed director Hirokazu Kore-eda in The Truth.
But in The President’s Wife, Bernadette’s story unfolds uniquely. Domnach challenges conventional biopic norms by sharing real-life images of the Chiracs during the opening credits, instantly immersing viewers into their world. This stylistic choice effectively replaces the typical end credits that reveal the truth of the depicted figures, creating a more engaging narrative experience.
An Unconventional Storytelling Technique
Strikingly, rather than beginning with the cliché "based on a true story," the film introduces an onscreen choir to remind audiences that truth can be elusive. This bold choice riffs on the classic Greek chorus, often interrupting with musical pieces like the “Hallelujah” chorus or Bizet’s Carmen, inviting viewers to ponder the veracity of the tale before them.
The tale itself progresses from May 1995, just before Jacques Chirac’s election victory, where Bernadette’s intuition plays a key role. With conviction and strength of purpose, she believes she is poised for a significant role in the Élysée Palace, only to find her candid nature is viewed with skepticism.
Navigating Family Dynamics and Political Intrigue
As she adapts to her new role as First Lady, Bernadette faces significant challenges both in her marriage and family life. Her daughter Claude, played by Sara Giraudeau, embodies the political climate, urging her mother to temper her honesty for the sake of image. Here lies a central tension of the film—the clash between family loyalty and public perception.
Jacques wants Bernadette to be a silent supporter, relegated to charity work while he takes center stage, further complicated by a scandalous affair. However, Bernadette is determined not to be just a passive observer of her husband’s success.
Reinventing Herself: Bernadette’s Evolution
Driven by a desire for respect and recognition, Bernadette looks to the late Princess Diana as inspiration, transforming herself into a beloved public figure. Her philanthropic endeavors, including establishing a hospital for teenagers struggling with anorexia—a disorder affecting her daughter Laurence—showcase her resilience. Yet, revealing Laurence’s struggle in her memoir creates a rift that adds another layer of complexity to her character.
The dynamic between Bernadette and Bernard, played by Denis Podalydès, offers thrilling moments of chemistry. Initially adversaries, they develop into a clever partnership that fans the flames of Bernadette’s public image, showcasing Deneuve’s charm as they execute strategic press engagements.
Deneuve’s Enduring Magnificence
At the impressive age of 80, Deneuve continues to shine, proving that her depth of character transcends time and age. Her ability to convey mischief and complexity makes her portrayal of Bernadette unforgettable. The film cleverly dances around the truth, echoing lines from The Truth when Deneuve’s character quips:
“I never tell the naked truth. It’s not interesting.”
This mantra resonates throughout The President’s Wife, inviting viewers to consider the merging of reality and artifice.
Conclusion: A Must-See Cinematic Journey
Ultimately, The President’s Wife is a compelling mix of comedy and drama that examines power, perception, and personal growth against the backdrop of political history. With an engaging narrative, a stellar performance from Deneuve, and innovative storytelling techniques by Domnach, this film is not only a tribute to Bernadette Chirac but a celebration of female empowerment in a male-dominated arena.
Rating: ★★★
The President’s Wife
Written and directed by Léa Domnach.
Starring Catherine Deneuve, Michel Vuillermoz, Sara Giraudeau, Denis Podalydès, Maud Wyler, and Laurent Stocker.
Runtime: 93 minutes | Rating: Unrated
Now playing at Landmark Kendall Square.
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