"Camille Claudel" is an earnest biopic which tells of her rise to prominence in Paris as a student (and mistress) of renown sculptor Auguste Rodin, their love/hate relationship, her struggle for independent recognition as an artist, and her eventual descent into madness. A subtitled French film, "Camille Claudel" deserves high marks on all counts with sterling performances by all and all the trappings of late 19th century life in Paris. If the film has a flaw, it is the almost 2.5 hours is spends on the historically obscure, esoteric, and decidedly unpleasant subject which is likely to wear on, if not wear out, the casual filmgoer interested in entertainment. Not for the many, "Camille Claudel" will play best for patrons or students of French art, art history, sculpting, etc.; for those with an interest in Rodin and/or Claudel; and, of course, fans of the principals. (B)
Review of Camille Claudel
