Claudia DiMartino

I thought this movie was so good. I was intrigued by the trailer. The story is fresh. The acting is phenomenal as is the directing. I was touched to my core. I highly recommend.

I saw the film, Chevalier starring and brilliantly portrayed by Kelvin Harrison, Jr. as Joseph Bolagne, The Chevalier. It is based on the true story of this accomplished violin virtuoso and composer whose story and works were hidden until now due to the racism of pre-revolutionary France. The film opens with a mesmerizing fictionalized violin duel between Bolagne and Mozart. Bolagne was the illegitimate child of a plantation slave owner in Guadeloupe and his slave. Recognizing the child as a musical prodigy, he brings him to a renowned school in France so he can cultivate his gifts. Before abandoning him, his last words to his son are “Be excellent”. His story unfolds capturing his talent and favor with Queen Marie Antoinette while revealing his captivity as a black man in this period in history. I found myself speechless at the end of the film as I was filled with a myriad of emotions ranging from amazement to anger as I journeyed through a very different and eye-opening depiction of another side of the dehumanization of slavery. This film is rated PG-13 for thematic scenes, suggestive scenes, strong language and violence. I recommend Chevalier and rate it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️