This unique film is a work of art that shouldn’t be missed.

Rebekah Karp, Staff Writer/Artist

Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a love story to last the ages. This film is written and directed by Céline Sciamma. It follows a young woman who is about to be married, and a young female painter.

Marianne (Noémie Merlant) is commissioned to paint a beautiful wedding portrait of Heloise (Adèle Haenel) but without her knowing. The painting is a gift for her soon-to-be husband, but Heloise refuses to sit still to pose. The only way for this to happen — and for the painting to be completed — is for Marianne to spend as much time as possible with Heloise, then rush back home and try and paint her in the night. 

The two women grow very close in this stunning piece of art. Each frame could be a piece of art in itself. This film relies heavily on its cinematography. The visuals were done by Claire Mathon, which was one of the most driving parts of the film. The way the cinematography and score go so well together makes the film an overall piece of art. This film has also collected numerous awards from many film festivals for the way that its unique love story plays out. There isn’t a dull moment or a frame that isn’t painted in such a way that drives the film onward.

Overall, this is a work of art in a beautiful visual sense and with the story as well.