Is Hippolyte and Aricie Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2010)

📖 The Core Premise

Hippolyte and Aricie returns to the screen in 2010, bringing a fresh narrative to the various genre. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "In Glyndebournes first-ever staging of a opera by Rameau, director Jonathan Kent presents a production which, in his own words, strives to appeal to every sense and show audiences how engrossing and musically ravishing French Baroque opera can be. Rameaus inventive take on Racines great tragedy Phèdre is brought to life by Paul Browns colourful and elegant designs and Ashley Pages playful choreography. Ed Lyon and Christiane Karg give captivating performances as the titular young lovers, while Sarah Connolly, making a welcome return to Glyndebourne, invests Phaedra with both grandeur and a desperately human vulnerability (The Independent). Leading exponent of early music William Christie sets an exhilarating pace, galvanising the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment to playing of tremendous panache (The DailyTelegraph)."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Sarah Connolly shines in a role that demands both nuance and gravitas, elevating the material significantly. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good cinema. The cinematography and score further amplify the experience, creating a truly immersive atmosphere.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Hippolyte and Aricie worth your time? If you appreciate various films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. It stands out as one of the stronger entries of 2010, offering enough depth to satisfy critical viewers while remaining accessible to casual audiences.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Hippolyte and Aricie is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 186 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.