Camille Claudel

The troubled life of French sculptor Camille Claudel and her long relationship with legendary sculptor Auguste Rodin are portrayed in this passionate biographical drama, featuring an acclaimed, Academy Award nominated performance by Isabelle Adjani (Subway).

Beginning in the 1880s with a young Claudel's first meeting with Rodin (Gerard Depardieu, Cyrano de Bergerac), the film traces the development of their intense romantic bond. The growth of this relationship coincides with the rise of Claudel's career, helping her overcome prejudices against female artists. However, their romance soon sours, due to the increasing pressures of Rodin's fame and his love for another woman. These difficulties combine with her increasing doubts about the value of her work, driving Claudel into an emotional tumult that threatens to become insanity.

Former cinematographer Bruno Nuytten beautifully renders the period setting, whilst also offering a sensuous and powerful testament to Claudel's need to create and the forces arrayed against her.