Marie Antoinette
However, a film centered around Marie Antoinette in 18th century France leads on the idea of a historical period piece. Coppola’s Marie Antoinette lacked the pivotal part of a historical period piece- the history, leaving viewers with fluff and pastry puffs, and a hunger for something more. Even for myself, a teenage girl whose favorite color is pink, would live off frosting if possible, and will never turn down an 80s theme night, the movie became a monotonous two hours of wealthy naiveté, lacking the substance or history around the focus character of the film. Because of the modern music and flashy images, the movie’s trailer grabbed the attention of young girls across the United States, and internationally. However, for many girls, the film taught no history, but rather showed the excitement of overindulgent materialism. Most producers would have a difficult time fitting modern rock and converse sneakers into an 18th century period piece, without it seeming strained and out of place. Kweenie suggests “Since Coppola and the 13 year olds she aims her film at are the film’s real subjects, her injection of present-day signifiers and modern teen speak feels right and unforced, including the witting inclusion of a pastel tennis shoe amid Marie’s fetishistic collection of footwear. History would have only confused Coppola. ” With so much cake in the film, it is a mystery of how Marie Antoinette’s most famous line, “let them eat cake” could have ever been left out. For those unaware of the history of Marie Antoinette, Marie Antoinette, the film, dilutes her importance as a historical figure, whether that be the woman who caused the French revolution, or the misunderstood heroine.