The Last Duel

Ridley Scott directs this true story of the last officially sanctioned duel in France. Set in the late 14th century it tells the story of Marguerite De Carrouges (Jodie Comer), the wife of squire and Knight, Sir Jean (Matt Damon). Sir Jean is a violent and effective soldier a respected fighter in the Kings forces. Jacques Le Gris (Adam Driver) is a squire and friend of Sir Jean, they have fought together and have a strong bond. However, this is broken as Le Gris becomes a trusted aide to Count Pierre d’Alençon (Ben Affleck) which reaches a peak when Le Gris is granted land, gifted to Sir Jean as part of his wife’s dowry. However, when the two meet at a celebration, there is a truce. But it is here Le Gris meets Marguerite and is attracted to her, which ultimately leads to his unwanted attention and a visit to her home and rape. Marguerite wants justice, she gets her husbands support, and when Le Gris denies it and a show trial exonerates him, Sir Jean takes it to the King, who grants him the right to duel Le Gris to the death.

The story is an epic and fascinating tale, told in an interesting three act structure, with each act told from the point of view of the main protagonists. Each is written by a different writer, Damon, Affleck and Nicole Holofcener and this gives them a subtly different voice and they all leave room for interpretation.

However, this is not only a sword fighting epic full of blood and guts. While at times there are spectacular and visceral action scenes, none more so than the violent and bloody duel at the films climax. It is more interesting when asking thoughtful and intriguing questions, especially around the reality of a women’s life in the 14th century. Even in her own version Marguerite realises she is nothing more that property to be traded by the men in her life.

The stella cast deliver, Comer in particular, who could’ve easily been overshadowed by Damon, Affleck and Driver, shines. With a powerful performance, showing strength, vulnerability and pain in equal measure. Amongst the male cast Adam Driver as Le Gris stands out and feels most at home in the 14th century.

It is two and a half hours long, but for me it uses the time well telling its story patiently and engagingly.

A fascinating story cleverly told, the three act structure allowed the Last Duel to do something different with the historic epic. It’s epic feel, fine performances and visceral action set pieces provided an intriguingly watchable drama, Well worth a watch.