Unveiling the Allure of The Rose of Versailles: A Captivating Review of Marie Antoinette’s Journey in Sparkly Anime

Sneha Jaiswal (Twitter | Instagram)

Even if you haven’t read Riyoko Ikeda’s original manga, it’s clear that the 2025 Netflix film The Rose of Versailles leaves out a lot of content. Studio MAPPA has done a remarkable job with the stunning animation, bringing to life the extravagant world of Marie Antoinette while showcasing the struggles of Lady Oscar, a fictional female military commander who defies gender norms.

Directed by Ai Yoshimura, the film begins with a young Marie Antoinette arriving in France to meet her husband, Louis XVI. Though she is beautiful and romantic, her heart wanders to a Swedish count, Axel von Fersen, a real historical figure, adding another layer of complexity to her story. Simultaneously, Oscar, raised as a man to inherit her father’s military title, becomes Marie’s friend.

Initially, both characters seem poised as dual protagonists, but the film shifts focus. In the latter half, Oscar’s journey becomes central as she grapples with her disillusionment during the French Revolution, leaving Marie overshadowed. Key story arcs from the manga are noticeably absent, which could frustrate fans hoping for a deeper dive into Marie’s character. While viewers might find moments to empathize with the teenage new bride, the film doesn’t fully capture her transformation from an innocent girl to a detached queen. In contrast, Oscar’s character growth is more pronounced as she faces the stark realities of poverty in Paris, unlike Marie and her court, who remain blissfully unaware.

The vivid animation beautifully captures the opulence of the French court, but there are concerns about the demands placed on MAPPA’s animators. Known for overworking staff on projects like ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’, the studio’s choice for a film instead of a series may stem from a desire to avoid extended labor. Given the original manga’s rich history dating back to the 1970s, fans certainly expected a more faithful adaptation.

In summary, while The Rose of Versailles is visually captivating, it might disappoint those looking for a comprehensive story. For newcomers, it’s a decent introduction, but those familiar with the manga may find it lacking.

Rating: 6 out of 10. You can watch it on Netflix.

To explore more, check out this insightful review on the impact of royal portrayals in modern media: The Royals in Media.

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