Historical Films About Joan of Arc

Description: This classic film by Victor Fleming stars Ingrid Bergman in what is considered one of her finest roles. It's a more traditional, reverential take on Joan's life, focusing on her trial and execution.

Fact: Bergman won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role, although she was not present to accept it due to controversy surrounding her personal life at the time.

Description: This film, directed by Luc Besson, offers a gritty and sometimes controversial portrayal of Joan of Arc, focusing on her visions and the brutal realities of war. Milla Jovovich delivers a powerful performance as Joan.

Fact: The film was shot in both English and French, with the French version being slightly longer. It was also one of the most expensive French films ever made at the time.

Description: Directed by Jacques Rivette, this film provides a more introspective look at Joan, focusing on her spiritual journey and the psychological aspects of her visions.

Fact: The film was shot in a documentary style, giving it a raw and authentic feel, and was praised for its historical accuracy.

Description: A modern take on the legend, this film explores Joan's story through a contemporary lens, focusing on her as a symbol of resistance and empowerment.

Fact: The film was praised for its diverse cast and its attempt to address contemporary issues through historical narrative.

Description: Carl Theodor Dreyer's silent masterpiece is renowned for its close-up shots and emotional intensity, capturing Joan's trial with stark realism and profound empathy.

Fact: The film was thought to be lost for many years until a copy was found in a Norwegian mental institution in the 1980s.

Description: One of the earliest films about Joan of Arc, this silent short by Georges Méliès uses special effects to depict her visions and the battles she led.

Fact: Méliès, known for his pioneering work in cinema, used his signature trick photography to bring Joan's story to life in a visually innovative way.

Description: Otto Preminger's version stars Jean Seberg in her debut role, offering a more theatrical and somewhat stylized depiction of Joan's life and martyrdom.

Fact: The film was shot in England, and Seberg's performance was both praised and criticized for its modern approach to the character.

Description: Directed by Robert Bresson, this film is known for its minimalist style and focus on Joan's inner life, presenting her as a deeply spiritual figure.

Fact: Bresson's approach was to strip away the spectacle and focus on the essence of Joan's character, making it a unique cinematic experience.

Description: This made-for-TV movie stars Leelee Sobieski as Joan, providing a straightforward and accessible narrative of her life, suitable for a younger audience.

Fact: Sobieski's performance was noted for its maturity, earning her critical acclaim despite her young age.

Description: Directed by Robert Rossen, this film stars Jean Seberg again, but this time in a more mature and nuanced portrayal of Joan, focusing on her political and military strategies.

Fact: The film was shot on location in France, adding to its authenticity, and Seberg's performance was noted for its depth and complexity.