THE RETURN OF MARTIN GUERRE. Directed by Daniel Vigne; written by Daniel Vigne and Jean-Claude Carriere; released by European International Distribution. Starring Gerard Depardieu and Nathalie Baye. Sub-titled French. Rated R (nudity).
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In this day and age it's hard to imagine not being able to prove you are who you say you are. Having to depend on relatives you haven't seen for years to verify birthmarks or scars from childhood injuries, for example. But in the 16th century, without photography, fingerprinting or driver's licenses, the situation seems chillingly believeable. And the question—what really makes me me—is at the heart of Martin Guerre. It's a fascinating French movie made in 1981.
Guerre is a disagreeable peasant who deserts his pretty wife and son. Eight years later he returns, much mellowed. He is more loving, intelligent and outgoing than when he left. Travel is broadening, after all. But after a few years, some doubts begin to crop up. Is this really our Martin? Some villagers like him anyway and don't care. But some have an interest in proving him an imposter.
The long and painful process of establishing the truth is the main plot of Martin Guerre. Until the doubts begin, the pace is a little slow. But even when not much is happening on screen, the painstakingly recreated village and peasants are a treat to watch. Every detail seems completely authentic. And there is a warm, familial feeling among the villagers, at least at first. Even though everyone looks in need of a bath, it's hard not to feel some nostalgia for such simpler times.
Martin Guerre can be enjoyed as just a historical romance. But there is a lot going on here, and a little deeper thinking will be rewarded. It shows how easily people let their opinions be formed by others, for example. And there's the power of love, even in a fairly primitive society, to override the fear of domination.
This movie has a lot going for it, not the least of which is its excellent cast. Depardieu is charming, sexy, eloquent and brash, everything Guerre should be. His wife Bertrande, on the other hand, is constantly torn by love, doubt and guilt. Baye portrays this confusion very well.
Now that I've given you plenty of reasons to like this movie, I must say why some people may not. It is in French with subtitles, and this bothers some moviegoers. For myself, I would much rather hear the voices of the actors, especially such talented ones. The subtitles here are very clear and easy to read. They're not at all distracting after a brief period of adjustment. Of course watching a movie in French is more difficult than one in English. But in he case of Martin Guerre, the effort is very much worth it.
January 18, 1984
NOTE: a good English-language re-make is Sommersby, set in America just after the Civil War, starring Richard Gere and Jodie Foster.