Jacquou le Croquant

I RECENTLY saw mention on France 3 Perigords television of a film about a peasant revolt in the Dordgone produced in the region.

The film, Jacquou le Croquant, is set in the early 19th Century and tells the story of a young man who turns against the ruling classes.

I've only been able to see the trailers on the official site but Patrick writes on his Brain Police website a glowing review of the film.

Patrick says he enjoyed spotting corners of the Dordogne where the film was shot, but he also said the "art direction, costuming, camera work, design and sets are absolutely stunning".

Author Eugene Le Roy wrote a book based on the events in the late 1800s and thanks to the wonders of the internet I've been able to track down an online version of the title.

Jacquou le Croquant is available through Ebooks Gratuits, just do a search on the author's name and whilst you are there you are sure to discover a variety of French classics.

And if you have seen the film please feel free to leave a mini-review in the comments below.

Comments

[patrick]

Sure, I'll leave a mini review...first the story takes place during the Restoration in the early 1800's in a France bankrupt by the Napoleonic Wars.
There are many differences between the flim and LeRoys book, all made to make the story more Hollywood Happy Ending and simplify the politics, but the director does depict the utter poverty and the cruelty of the newly empowered nobiliity.
That aside, the film is stunningly painterly, emotionally involving and you will find yourself thinking the count got off easy at the end!
If you get a chance, try to find the 8 hour mini series produced for French television in the late 60's. It is faithful to the book in every detail and wonderfully made.