
Once Upon a Time...
2013

2011
Director
Philippe Ramos
Runtime
87 minutes
Average Rating
No ratings yetSynopsis
In 1430, Joan of Arc, the prisoner of a powerful lord of the north of France is sold to the English. As a captive awaiting her death, she is approached by different men for whom she is believed to be the embodiment of the infinite.
Overall Score
Good
Category Breakdown
LGBTQ+ Representation
The film subverts traditional gendered roles by focusing on Joan's spiritual essence rather than her military utility. This approach allows for non-heteronormative interpretations of her presence, though specific depictions of intimacy are not detailed.
Gender Representation
By stripping Joan of her warrior status, the film re-centers her power through intellectual and spiritual influence. It challenges the 'passive female victim' trope by framing her captivity as a site of existential strength.
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Set in 15th-century France, the film operates within the homogeneous constraints of its era. While it avoids strictly nationalist storytelling, there is no evidence of significant racial blending or diverse casting.
Religious & Cultural Diversity
The narrative deconstructs monolithic religious authority by prioritizing subjective morality over dogma. It frames institutional power as a force that ultimately fails to contain the individual spirit.
Disability Representation
The film provides no specific depictions of characters navigating physical, sensory, or neurodivergent disabilities.
Strengths
Areas for Improvement
AI Analysis
Philippe Ramos avoids the tropes of mainstream historical epics, opting instead for a contemplative deconstruction of a historical icon. The film shifts the focus from external military triumphs to the internal psychological state of Joan of Arc. By centering the narrative on how various men perceive Joan as an embodiment of the infinite, the film moves away from traditional 'Great Woman' historical tropes. This creates a more nuanced exploration of identity and perception. The work succeeds in subverting traditional power dynamics, using captivity to highlight spiritual agency rather than mere victimhood.

2013

2014

2012

2007

2005

2014

2019

1895

1968

1969
1963

2000
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!
Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.