Drama,History
United Kingdom,United States of America
Colette is a biographical drama film that chronicles the life of Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette, one of the most celebrated French authors of the 20th century. Set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the movie traces Colette's journey from a naive country girl to a renowned writer and feminist icon.
The film begins with Colette's marriage to Willy, a charming but manipulative literary figure who recognizes her talent and persuades her to write for him. The couple moves to Paris, where Colette discovers a world of bohemian artists, intellectuals, and writers who inspire her to explore her own creativity and question the restrictive gender roles of the time.
As her ghostwritten novels featuring the character Claudine become wildly popular, Colette struggles to claim her own identity and intellectual property. She fights against Willy's attempts to control and exploit her talent, ultimately breaking free and asserting her independence.
Throughout the movie, Colette's relationships with other women are highlighted, including her affairs with the wealthy and daring Missy, who becomes a muse and mentor to her, and the gender-nonconforming performer Mathilde de Morny, who supports her in her fight against Willy.
Colette's story is one of artistic ambition, sexual liberation, and feminist empowerment. The film celebrates her legacy as a writer and a trailblazer, while also grappling with the challenges and conflicts she faced in a patriarchal society.
