The movie All the Mornings of the World, directed by Alain Corneau and released in 1991, is a French drama that tells the story of Monsieur de Sainte Colombe, a talented and reclusive musician who lived in 17th century France. The film is based on a novel by Pascal Quignard, which was inspired by the life of the real Monsieur de Sainte Colombe.
The movie begins with Monsieur de Sainte Colombe, played by Jean-Pierre Marielle, returning home from a trip to find that his wife has died in his absence. Consumed by grief, he moves into a small house in his garden and withdraws from the world, focusing solely on his music and his two young daughters, Madeleine and Toinette.
Despite his isolation, the reputation of Monsieur de Sainte Colombe as a musician grows, and his music is celebrated for its emotional depth and beauty. His refusal to perform for the court of Louis XIV only adds to his mystique, making him a figure of fascination and rumor.
One day, young Marin Marais, played by Guillaume Depardieu, comes to visit Monsieur de Sainte Colombe, asking to be taught how to play the violin. Monsieur de Sainte Colombe is initially resistant to accepting Marin as a pupil, but eventually agrees to take him on.
The relationship between Monsieur de Sainte Colombe and Marin is at the heart of the movie, as the young musician learns from the master and comes to understand the depth of emotion and dedication required to create truly great music. As Marin's skill grows, he begins to receive attention from the court of Louis XIV, leading to tension between the two musicians and ultimately a tragic conclusion.
All the Mornings of the World is a haunting and beautiful film, anchored by the powerful performances of Marielle and Depardieu and the evocative music of Monsieur de Sainte Colombe. It is a meditation on the nature of art and creativity, as well as a poignant exploration of grief and loss.