CheerupSilver Very Cool!!!

Micitype Pretty Good

Erica Derrick By the time the dramatic fireworks start popping off, each one feels earned.

Allison Davies The film never slows down or bores, plunging from one harrowing sequence to the next.

iamyuno2 Gerard Depardieu fans will have to see this film - I believe this is the one that solidified his standing as a great actor. That notwithstanding, this is a gorgeously-filmed true historical tale that will rivet you to the very end, bringing to life characters you will care about deeply and a long-forgotten Medieval world that will absolutely fascinate you. And what a glimpse it gives you into an era that's not been brought to life this well hardly ever. This movie was remade in America as a forgettable movie with Richard Gere whose title I won't even mention; don't see that version. While you have to read subtitles if you don't understand the French, it's worth it because this is one of the best movies ever made - and it puts most American movies of its time to shame. This is how you tell a story. And the story keeps you guessing to the very end - and even then leaves you with questions. You won't soon forget this tragic story and you'll be glad you made the effort to see the movie.

FilmCriticLalitRao Daniel Vigne described his film as a modern story that took place in 16th century.Le Retour de Martin Guerre is a wonderful historic romance that pertinently comments on an individual's role in society.The film is a beautiful illustration of 16th century pastoral life. Pancette had the nerve to assume Martin's identity as Bertrande constantly assisted him in deceit.His greed was responsible for his ruin as he claimed wealth which never belonged to him.A vast majority of viewers will not be in a position to form an opinion about Bertrande as she did not wish to spend her life with an impotent village resident.The entire storyline hinges heavily on Gerard Depardieu's captivating performance.His imposing aura makes us readily accept him as the real Martin Guerre even though,in reality,he is Martin's lookalike Pancette.Le Retour de Martin Guerre will fascinate not only the admirers of suspense genre but also those spectators who are attracted to drama.Daniel Vigne has effectively crafted a thought-provoking oeuvre which competently wrestles with major issues like identity and deception.

leftyguns2 Among foreign films I've watched, the "return of Martin Guerre" is definitely a must see. It truly stays true to history, as much as possible.I found it interesting that the film came into being only because Coras had written about this otherwise obscure occurrence. Furthermore the way the characters were portrayed in such a true to form manner that made this film even more worth watching. I found the entire trial scene as particularly interesting. Also the scenes from the farm, give true insight to what 1500's Europe may have been like. I also give high marks to the social commentary, showing how far someone can go for financial gain, and how something that started solely as for personal gain continues to go on because those involved appear to be satisfied with the arrangement. this is very insightful as to how it related to human emotion.i strongly recommend this film to all, especially to those like myself that like true local historic themes.

cknudsen This isn't a comment on the actual quality of the movie itself, but rather a response to the number of postings which have suggested this movie is not an original concept.I have some shocking news for you, but there really was a Martin Guerre. His court case in the mid-16th century is well documented in primary sources and this movie attempts to retell this story.In 1983, historian Natalie Zemon Davis, who incidentally was originally involved with the film as an historical consultant, wrote a well received micro-history on the court case and it's outcome. (The Return of Martin Guerre - published by Harvard University Press, 1983)This case was thought of as unusual even during the 16th century. So much so, that it became part of French folklore. Earlier Hollywood movies likely tapped into this folklore, when they penned similar stories.So this film, rather than simply being another in a long line of similar movies, is the first to tackle the "original story". That being said, the movie is not perfect and strays from the facts a great deal. Natalie Zemon Davis, herself, states in her introduction to her book that she was troubled by the film's creative license with history.Nevertheless, I recommend anyone to see this film yourself and make up your own mind. Better yet, read the book!