Based on the short novel of the same name by French novelist Colette, Cheri tells the story of an aging courtesan, Lea (Michelle Pfeiffer) of the Belle Epoque in France, who is lured into a relationship with a young dilettante, nicknamed Cheri (Rupert Friend) by his former courtesan mother (Kathy Bates)in order to protect the boy from bad influences of drugs and debauchery as well as to fine tune his skills as a lover. Unbeknownst to Lea, the relationship is merely a pretext to prepare Cheri for an arranged marriage with the daughter of another courtesan, the wealthy, Marie Laure. The movie quickly reaches a climax as, clearly deeply in love, neither Lea nor Cheri can survive without the other. However, ultimately it is Cheri who breaks off the relationship, choosing to remain with his young bride, but it is Lea who survives. The death of the Belle Epoque sees the death of Cheri by his own hand, presumably unable to find love with other than the woman he rejected. Having read the original novel and knowing of Colette's bisexuality, it was fascinating to watch Cheri try on Lea's pearls and generally act the feminine role, while observing Lea making plans, acting maturely and generally playing the more masculine role. Pfeiffer is radiant as always and plays her role as Lea to the hilt. I could take or leave Friend as Cheri although he does combine a certain effeminacy and insouciance that are critical to the character. Kathy Bates as always is natural, bawdy and clever. It is only by a flick of an eye, a twist of the mouth or the way in which she sips brandy that we understand her evil intent regarding Lea. Reminiscent in tone to Dangerous Liaisons and other European-set dramas, Cheri is beautifully filmed both in costume and background sets. The plot is simple, but the emotions and social underpinnings of the story are very sophisticated and complex.Read full review
BRAVO great period film Lead actresses did outstanding job . LUSH BEAUTIFUL SETS AND COSTUMES. Story interesting throughout, Very entertaining. One of the best period film I have seen in a while
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Love this movie!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
I purchased this movie with out seeing it first and it was excellent. The actor that plays the title role Cheri was also in The Young Victoria and I loved him in that so that's why I thought I'd give this one a try. I'm so glad I did!
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