Madame du Barry (1954 film)

Madame du Barry is a 1954 historical drama film directed by Christian-Jaque and starring Martine Carol as the titular character, Jeanne Bécu, who later becomes Madame du Barry, mistress of King Louis XV. The film chronicles her rise from humble beginnings to the heights of French court society, depicting her relationships with influential figures and the intrigues surrounding her life at Versailles.

The film is a French-Italian co-production. It's known for its lavish costumes and set designs, typical of historical epics of the era. The plot generally follows the historical outline of Madame du Barry's life, though it takes some liberties for dramatic effect. The movie explores themes of social mobility, power, and the decadent lifestyle of the French aristocracy prior to the French Revolution.

Armando Francioli plays Louis XV, and the supporting cast includes Gianna Maria Canale and Noël Roquevert. While not always praised for historical accuracy, the film was a significant commercial success, boosting the popularity of Martine Carol and contributing to the enduring fascination with the figure of Madame du Barry. Reviews at the time were mixed, with some critics finding the film visually appealing but lacking in depth.