A Cinematic Masterpiece That Demands to Be Watched
There is a film that I wish I could erase from my memory, not because it was bad, but because I want to experience it for the first time all over again. That film is Portrait of a Lady on Fire, a 2019 masterpiece by Céline Sciamma. It’s a story of forbidden love, tension, drama, and historical period charm that has left an indelible mark on my heart.
This is the only movie I’ve ever watched and immediately wanted to watch again. And the best part? It streams for free on Kanopy, which makes it even more accessible. If you haven’t seen it yet, there’s no reason to wait any longer.
Why You Need to Watch This Film
Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a visually stunning film that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern. It’s filled with slow-burn passion and breathtaking cinematography that captures every emotion and moment with precision. As an undergraduate film student at UNC Chapel Hill, I first saw this film and have since watched it at least a dozen times. It’s a film that truly resonates with me.
The easiest way to watch it is through Kanopy, where it’s available for free. However, if you prefer, it’s also available on HBO Max with a paid subscription or can be rented on Prime Video. For those looking for a free option, using your public library login or university ID credentials is the most straightforward path.
The Story Behind the Film
Set in 1770 Brittany, northern France, the film follows Marianne, a middle-class painter commissioned by a countess to create a wedding portrait of her daughter, Héloïse. Héloïse, however, refuses to sit for any portrait, as it would confirm her arranged marriage to a Milanese nobleman. To complete the task, Marianne must secretly observe Héloïse while posing as her companion.
Through their daily interactions, the two women develop a deep friendship and eventually fall in love. Their relationship transcends class and sexuality, but ultimately, Marianne is forced to create the very portrait that will end their connection.
A Powerful LGBTQ+ Romance
Starring Noémie Merlant and Adèle Haenel, the film features an almost entirely female cast and presents a powerful LGBTQ+ romance. It explores themes of power, memory, passion, and desire through the lens of women. Despite its 18th-century setting, the film delves into modern issues such as gender, class, sexuality, and reproductive rights—issues that are suffocated under a patriarchal society but thrive when those constraints are removed.
The film is often recognized as a feminist triumph, as it challenges the male gaze and reinterprets the classic Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. It also subverts traditional expectations of the master/muse relationship, making it a rare and significant achievement in cinema.
A Beautifully Moving Experience
With its nuanced themes, exquisite cinematography, and emotionally resonant performances, Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a beautifully moving film. Watching it is a profound and unforgettable cinematic experience. Whether you’re moved to tears in a theater full of strangers or simply enjoy the quiet moments of reflection, you’re in for something special.
Recognition and Legacy
The film was selected for competition at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival, where it lost the Palme d’Or to Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite. However, it won the Queer Palm, becoming the first film directed by a woman to receive the award. Sciamma also received the Best Screenplay award at Cannes in 2019, further solidifying her place in cinematic history.
Additional Recommendations
If you enjoyed Portrait of a Lady on Fire, there are plenty of other films worth exploring. Our experts have curated lists of the best movies currently streaming on Max, Netflix, and Amazon Prime. You can also stream our favorite horror double feature on Netflix.
For more recommendations, check out:
- The Best Sci-Fi Movies on Prime Video
- The Best Horror Movies on Max
- The Absolute Best Horror Movies on Hulu