The Big Picture The 25 Best Movies of the Century: No. 10 - 'Marie Antoinette’
Oct 1, 2025
Dive into the lavish world of Sofia Coppola's 'Marie Antoinette,' as the hosts dissect why it outshines 'Lost in Translation' for selection. They highlight the film's unique perspective on female experiences and social norms, while also addressing Coppola's artistic decision to omit the infamous beheading. The conversation also explores Kirsten Dunst’s standout performance and the film’s vibrant soundtrack, which bridges past and present. Critical reception takes center stage, revealing the film's polarizing journey from Cannes to its rightful spot in cinematic history.
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Sofia Coppola's Signature Blank-Check Film
- Amanda argues Marie Antoinette is the purest Sofia Coppola film, fully expressing her style and obsessions.
- She praises its blank-check production, rock soundtrack, and intimate focus on female experience.
A Film Set Inside Female Power Structures
- The film centers on 'girl world' and female authority rather than male power structures.
- Amanda highlights that Marie's life and stakes are dictated by women around her, making the film gendered in perspective.
Visual Judgment Over Dialogue
- Amanda rejects the idea that Coppola's films lack substance, saying she communicates judgment through visual choices.
- She emphasizes Coppola's observational filmmaking and camera-based critique.
