Ananya Anitha

A true masterpiece! Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a refreshingly feminist, richly textured film that explores love and desire with genuine emotion and profound insight. At the centre of the movie's manifesto is the notion of the female gaze. There is no unwanted nudity; there is no objectification of bodies just for the sake of voyeuristic pleasure. There is sensuality, desire, passion and consent. Celine Sciamma plays on the idea of consent, and how sexy it can be. Besides, the movie is a grand aesthetic treat; every frame is akin to an oil painting. Adèle Haenel, an extraordinary actor, is hauntingly intense as Héloïse, and Noémie Merlant , an equally strong presence on screen is magnificent as Marianne. The other two actors Luàna Bajrami and Valeria Golino delivered equally convincing performances. This is the kind of film that makes a lasting impact. It was a privilege to have watched this movie on big screen, in all its glory.