Joan of Arc

This TV documentary does a beautiful job of capturing the divine mission of the young maid who answered God's call to rescue France from falling to England in what became known as "The 100 Years War." It excepts that she was an instrument in God's hands and thus this is a uplifting experience for viewers of faith. Much of the production was shot at or near the locations of the historical story. While some people look upon the Joan of Arc story as a legend they are overlooking that her story survives from a detailed record of her actual trial. In 1929 Carl Theo. Dryer told her story in "The Passion of Joan of Arc" by using that trial record. It remains one of the most powerful films in the history of motion pictures and would be a great companion piece to this current documentary. Note: It should be viewed on the edition released on the Criterion label which includes a stirring score written by Richard Einhorn and sung by the Voices of Light women's group. This new documentary is a breath of fresh air and worthy tribute to one of histories great women.

As everyone knows the story of Joan of Arc, I hope my review won't get me blacklisted for failing to note spoilers.

While light on the squabbles among the Burgundians, the English, and supporters of Charles VII, and on the myriad events and battles in Joan's life, this program captures the spiritual quest of Joan of Arc to have Charles crowned at Reims. She is superbly played by Milly Thomas, who physically is a splendid match for the title character. Viewers feel an increasing sense of doom for poor Joan as she is betrayed by her own countrymen for political purposes. The program adequately describes the farcical trial by pro-English clergy who had no authority to try her, as the trial was a machination of English secular authorities. Desperate for a conviction, the clergy violated every rule of an ecclesiastical trial and used outright fraud, which culminated in her martyrdom at Rouen.

Few times can you sit down to a movie (or docudrama) without asking, at least once or twice, "What is the message of this scene?" or "What is the story?" --- This is one of those times. Not once will you ask where this story is going or what the message is. Instead, you will be captivated and carried away as the director and entire production team and cast create a mosaic of this young maiden's life worthy of an academy award. Very well done. A compelling reenactment that inspires one to learn more of the Great Joan of Arc. The performance of Milly Thomas was particularly rewarding. She had to carry this story on her back and successfully portray a virtuous warrior or the story was lost. Hope to see Milly in other shows.