The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc

The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc is a historical drama, released in 1999. Directed by Luc Besson, and featuring a magnificent cast that includes Milla Jovovich, John Malkovich, and Rab Affleck, the film is a passionate and powerful exploration of the life and times of Joan of Arc, who remains one of history's most compelling and enigmatic figures.

The movie kicks off by introducing a young girl in a tiny French village, Joan (played by Milla Jovovich). The filmmakers take some creative liberties to present a new perspective on Joan's early life, characterizing her as a young girl deeply troubled by the ruthlessness of war and engrossed in her faith. These childhood experiences and her religious ardor become the driving forces that shape Joan into the legendary figure she's celebrated as, framing her entire journey in the narrative.

As the story moves forward, we see Joan receiving mysterious visions that she believes are divine messages from Saints. Compelled by these visions and driven by her own fervor, Joan feels a holy mission bestowed upon her: to liberate her homeland from English domination. The film portrays Joan's tremendous courage as she convinces the uncertain Dauphin Charles (performed effortlessly by John Malkovich) to provide her with an army.

In a world dominated by men and in a role traditionally assumed by one, Joan, against all odds, leads French troops into battle during the Hundred Years War. Her passionate belief in her cause and her unwavering faith in God forms the spine of the narrative. Her conviction is palpable, even infectious, drawing everyone from the royal court to the common foot soldier into her cause.

Milla Jovovich delivers an unforgettable performance, embodying Joan's fear, zeal, determination, and vulnerability. She lets viewers get a glimpse of the intense emotional and spiritual struggle within Joan as she follows her divine calling. This personal journey of Joan is graphically heightened by Besson's signature cinematic effects, vibrant armor-clad knights, sweeping landscapes, and elegant palaces that provide a vivid window into the medieval era.

In addition, John Malkovich as the Dauphin Charles, and Rab Affleck, playing one of Joan's loyal henchmen, give remarkable performances. Each character serves as a reflection of the prevailing attitudes of the epoch – skepticism, faith, desperation, and the chaotic quest for power.

The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc is not just a war epic but a psychological exploration of a conflicted, enigmatic woman, grappling with her faith, and fueling a patriotic fire that forever changed the face of France. Despite being set in the context of war, the film steers clear of endorsing violence. Instead, it prompts viewers to question the human cost of war, the nature of divine intervention, the nuances of faith, and the consequences of fanaticism.

Furthermore, the film doesn't shy away from presenting the later part of Joan's life, including her trial and its unsettling end. It offers a detailed depiction of the turbulence, accusations, and soul-searching that Joan endured during that time.

The movie distinguishes itself by insisting on foregrounding Joan's humanity as well as her heroism. In many ways, it is a character study - an exploration of Joan's internal world, bared on screen for us to see, understand, and perhaps even to question. The treatment of the subject veers away from the oft-repeated, conventional stories, finding its unique voice in depicting Joan’s complex yet intriguing journey.

Intricately woven with historical facts and gripping performances, The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc will keep you engrossed throughout. It is a cinematic saga that would appeal to fans of epic historical dramas, theology, and those interested in strong, female protagonists. Emotionally gripping, visually stunning, and deeply thought-provoking, this film is indeed a captivating watch.