The Horseman on the Roof (Le Hussard sur le Toit)

REVIEW
France's great cholera epidemic of 1832 would hardly suggest the backdrop to a gripping story of courage, loyalty and love, but with its exquisite cinematography, compelling performances and stirringly old-fashioned story line, The Horseman on the Roof is exactly that. Martinez stars as Angelo, handsome Colonel of the Hussards, revolutionary and Italian expatriate, who begins a Candide-like adventure in his attempt to return home to Italy. He is accompanied on his journey by Pauline de Théris (Binoche), a beautiful countess with her own agenda for fleeing the region. As small towns in Provence become ravaged by the enveloping epidemic, the two refugees encounter fear, death, intrigue, and their own hearts. Director Rappeneau (Cyrano de Bergerac) has crafted an ambitious epic both ravishing and penetrating which rarely falters in its intensity, and the film is remarkably lucid in its many narrative transitions. Binoche offers a radiant performance, and Martinez is especially good as the dedicated soldier. (French with English subtitles)