🎬 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞 (𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟖)

Colette (2018), directed by Wash Westmoreland, is a biographical drama that tells the story of the pioneering French novelist Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette. The film follows Colette’s transformation from a simple country girl into a literary icon, all while navigating a tumultuous marriage to the charismatic yet controlling writer Henry Gauthier-Villars, known as “Willy.” Set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the film explores themes of gender, authorship, autonomy, and societal expectations. Through stunning period visuals and a powerful performance by Keira Knightley in the titular role, Colette portrays a woman’s struggle for independence and creative freedom in a world that seeks to silence her.

At the beginning of the film, Colette is introduced as a young woman from the countryside who falls in love with Willy, a well-known Parisian writer and literary entrepreneur. They marry, and Colette moves to Paris, where she becomes immersed in the bohemian lifestyle of the city. Willy, who struggles with debt and an inability to produce work himself, soon realizes that his wife has a natural talent for writing. He encourages her to write, but under the condition that the work is published under his name. Colette pens Claudine at School, a semi-autobiographical novel about a rebellious young woman, which becomes an instant sensation. The Claudine series turns into a cultural phenomenon, sparking fashion trends and a devoted readership, but Colette receives no public credit for her success.

As Colette matures, she begins to push back against Willy’s control. She sees through his manipulations and realizes that he has taken credit for her voice, using her talent to maintain his own literary reputation. Their marriage becomes increasingly strained as Colette starts to demand recognition for her work. At the same time, she explores her attraction to women, engaging in relationships that challenge the rigid norms of her era. One of the most notable relationships in the film is with Mathilde de Morny, known as “Missy,” a noblewoman who dresses in masculine attire and encourages Colette to embrace her true self. With Missy’s support, Colette finds the strength to break free from Willy’s influence and forge her own identity, both as a writer and as a woman.

The climax of the film comes when Colette finally stands up to Willy, refusing to let him profit from her work any longer. She demands ownership of her stories, but Willy refuses to acknowledge her contributions, leading to a bitter confrontation. In an act of defiance, Colette begins performing on stage with Missy, embracing a new form of artistic expression that defies gender and societal conventions. As she gains confidence in her independence, she ultimately leaves Willy behind, determined to reclaim her legacy. Over time, she establishes herself as one of France’s most celebrated authors, proving that talent and perseverance can overcome even the most oppressive circumstances.

Colette is a beautifully crafted film that highlights the resilience of a woman who refused to be silenced. Through lush cinematography, compelling performances, and a sharp script, the film captures the essence of Colette’s revolutionary spirit. It is not just a story about a writer, but about the broader struggle for female agency and artistic integrity. By the end, Colette emerges as a symbol of empowerment, having defied societal expectations to live life on her own terms. The film leaves viewers with an inspiring message: that true creativity cannot be caged, and that one’s voice is worth fighting for, no matter the obstacles.