The Incredible Sarah

The Incredible Sarah is a dramatic biopic from 1976 that delves into the life of the legendary French stage actress Sarah Bernhardt. Starring Glenda Jackson in the titular role, the film paints a vivid picture of Bernhardt's ascension to becoming one of the most famous and respected actresses of her time. The movie is directed by Richard Fleischer and showcases the multifaceted life of a woman who was not only an actress but also an artist, a businesswoman, and at times, a force of scandal and sensation.

Glenda Jackson, known for her powerful screen presence and emotive performances, embodies the role of Sarah Bernhardt with a vitality and flair that capture the essence of the original diva. Her portrayal is nuanced, reflecting the complexities of a woman who was far ahead of her time in terms of independence, artistic passion, and dedication to her craft.

The story unfolds primarily during the latter part of the 19th century and the early 20th century, a period when Europe was alight with cultural movements and theater was a prestigious and powerful medium of entertainment and social commentary. Despite the era's constraints on women, Sarah Bernhardt's career thrived, and she became a symbol of artistic excellence and personal freedom.

Supporting Jackson in the cast are Daniel Massey, playing the Damala, and Yvonne Mitchell, who portray key figures in Sarah's personal and professional life. Massey's character adds layers to the narrative by exploring the implications of fame on personal relationships, while Mitchell's role offers insight into the dynamics of friendship and rivalry that coexisted in Sarah's world.

The story starts by illustrating Sarah's early days as a young, ambitious actress in France, fighting against a society that was rigid and dismissive of women, especially those who dared to break the mold. The viewers are taken on a journey that details Sarah's relentless push to better her craft, take on challenging roles, and rise within the traditionally male-dominated theater scene. She joins the esteemed Comédie-Française, where she hones her abilities and develops her distinctive style.

Through a series of vignettes, The Incredible Sarah provides a glimpse into the key moments that defined Sarah Bernhardt's career and personal life. The film does not shy away from portraying her romantic endeavors, which were often the subject of public scandal and drew as much attention as her performances.

Bernhardt’s portfolio of roles was extensive, playing both traditional female roles and famously adopting male roles to critical acclaim. The movie showcases some of her most memorable performances, emphasizing her versatility as an actress who was not afraid to push boundaries. Throughout her illustrious career, Bernhardt was also committed to the art of theater production, often producing and managing her own shows to ensure they met her exacting standards.

The Incredible Sarah also exposes the physical and emotional toll that a life in the limelight exerted on Bernhardt. As she aged, the bodily demands of her passion exacted a high price, a reality that the film does not gloss over. Despite these challenges, Bernhardt's fiery spirit never wavers, and her legacy as a stage icon is a testament to her resilience.

The movie's direction, cinematography, and production design faithfully reconstruct the opulence and drama of the period. The clothing, set pieces, and props are all meticulously designed to immerse the audience in the grandeur of the Belle Époque. The rich visuals coupled with the evocative score complement Jackson’s performance and the storytelling, making The Incredible Sarah not just a historical narrative but a testament to the medium's theatrical grandiosity.

While the film is a tribute to a woman whose persona larger than life, it does not portray her as flawless. It presents Bernhardt as a complex human being with ambitions, flaws, and indomitable will. The narrative arc resists oversimplification, instead of presenting an intimate portrait that allows the audience to consider the multidimensional aspects of both the actress and the woman behind the name.

The Incredible Sarah serves as a testament to an extraordinary figure and a bygone era in which theater played an essential role in both entertainment and societal discourse. It is a stirring interpretation of Sarah Bernhardt's fascinating life, providing a look at the triumphs and tribulations faced by one of history's most incredible actresses—a must-watch for those interested in theater history, powerful biographies, and strong female protagonists.