Mademoiselle Paradis

Mademoiselle Paradis is a sumptuous period drama from 2017 revolving around the story of 18th century blind pianist Maria Theresia Paradis. This Austrian-German historical film, directed by Barbara Albert, unravels across the turbulent backdrop of Vienna's high society, prominently featuring themes of gender inequality and the limitations of societal expectations. It's a bittersweet tale, quirkily cinematic, shifting between gruelling reality and the ethereal grace of Rococo-era decadence.

Maria Dragus takes the lead role of Maria Theresia von Paradis, always referred to as Resi, who was a real historical figure—a pianist and composer of the Classical era. Despite being blind, she's a prodigy with the talent of creating bewitching music from the piano, becoming an enchanting spectacle in Vienna's elite circles. Dragus delivers a convincing portrayal of a vulnerable yet resilient artist caught within the debilitating confines of aristocratic demands.

Opposite of Dragus, we find Devid Striesow portraying the controversial character of Franz Mesmer. He is an innovative physician and a pioneer of what is now known as hypnotism, fascinated by alternate healing techniques. Mesmer, on discovering Resi’s inexplicably linked musical talent and her blindness, offers to treat her. His belief is that curing the young prodigy’s blindness will enhance her musical prowess rather than dampen it – a proposition that tends to instigate issues of the era’s ethical practices regarding disability and talent.

Rounding off the main trifecta of the cast is Lukas Miko in the role of Resi's father, who finds himself torn between his paternal instincts to protect his daughter and the opportunity to capitalize on her musical genius. His character's internal struggles amplify the already prevalent themes of exploitation and patriarchal control that infiltrate the narrative.

Mademoiselle Paradis is as much an exploration of societal norms as it is a historical account of a remarkably talented musician. The film deals with the question of what constitutes true liberation: is it the skinny winding path marked by societal stars, or is it in exploring the uncharted territory, even if it means standing alone?

Director Barbara Albert enchants the audience with her idiosyncratic depiction of 18th-century Vienna. Her unique vision resuscitates the Austro-German Rococo era with all its surface glimmer and hidden shadows. The cinematography is a glorious reaffirmation of the director's skill, exhibiting sweeping panoramic shots of Viennese architecture and tightly framed close-ups that exquisitely capture expressions of impotent frustration and concealed dread. The film's production design convincingly brings to life the hallways of Viennese nobility, splendidly adorned drawing rooms, theatres, and the picturesque European landscapes.

The film also features a rich period-appropriate music score. Resi's performances create the sonic landscape for the film, ranging from enthralling piano solos to riveting compositions echoed through ornate halls. The scoring is unconventionally remarkable, in that it frames the narrative's key periods, underlining Resi’s emotional trajectory throughout the film.

It's worth noting that Mademoiselle Paradis discusses themes of womanhood, music, and blindness in the backdrop of a society embedded in feudal and class distinctions. It shows how a woman’s talent was perceived and valued, and how her identity was often suppressed under the pressure of societal expectations. In the final analysis, it tends to expose the tyranny of patriarchal and elitist exploitation, the crude instrumentalization of talent and the ruthless myopia of 18th century society.

Still, this film doesn't wallow in despair, as it also celebrates the indomitable spirit of Resi, celebrating her victories, however small, and urging us to do the same.

In conclusion, Mademoiselle Paradis is an intriguing historical drama that offers a thoughtful exploration of societal attitudes towards disability, talent, gender, and class in 18th-century Austria. The stellar performances, particularly Dragus's rendition of Resi, paired with compelling storytelling and exquisite production, create an enchanting cinematic experience. This is a film that will engage those curious about the intersection of art, disability, and societal pressures.