Film: Désirée

In this film from 1954, the French Revolution and the rise and fall of Napoleon (Marlon Brando) are seen through the eyes of the leader’s first love, Désirée Clary (Jean Simmons). After Napoleon’s defeat at Waterloo, Désirée holds Europe’s fate in her hands, as queen of Sweden. The epic story provides a sweeping historical backdrop, but director Henry Koster uses the widescreen CinemaScope format to offer a philosophical mediation on love and politics amid war and revolution.

This screening is programmed by Jeffrey Lieber, visiting assistant professor in Harvard’s Department of History of Art and Architecture, in partnership with the Harvard Art Museums.

The event will take place in Menschel Hall, Lower Level.

Free admission

Support for this program is provided by the Richard L. Menschel Endowment Fund.