The Three Musketeers: D'Artagnan & Milady

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ (out of 5)

Do we need another version of The Three Musketeers has to be rattling around in your head as the announcement of Martin Bourboulon’s newest two-part story arrives in theatres. Yet, the thought of Alexandre Dumas's classic tale in the hands of the French master storyteller and director is intriguing. As one of Europe's biggest productions, this fresh look at these beloved characters may catalyse a new generation to fall in love with these legendary swordsmen.

D'Artagnan: For those who may be new to this historic French adventure set in the 17th century, we are first introduced to D'Artagnan (François Civil) as he makes his way to Paris to join the Musketeers of the Guard of King Louis XIII (Louis Garrel). Upon arrival, he manages to offend three key figures who cross his path, and each challenges the prideful youth to a duel. Athos (Vincent Cassel), Porthos (Pio Marmaï) and Aramis (Romain Duris) are all expert swordsmen and members of the musketeers themselves. Still, each is unaware of their intentions for justice with the young D'Artagnan. As they all look to fight to the death to display their honour, the four men suddenly find themselves needing to link arms and fight for their own survival in the king's court and in the halls of the law. These unassuming allies are thrust into a mysterious game that involves the queen (Vicky Krieps), Duke of Buckingham (Jacob Fortune-Lloyd), Milady de Winter (Eva Green) and the need to prove the innocence of Athos before he is beheaded for a crime he did not commit.

Milady: The second chapter of these French continues as Milady de Winter (Green) finds ways of survival as she weaves her influence behind the scenes of the treacherous work of those hoping to bring war to the shores of France. As D'Artagnan (François Civil) attempts to discover the whereabouts of his love, Constance Bonacieux (Lyna Khoudri), who was kidnapped after hearing those behind the assassination of the king. The musketeers do all they can to protect their sovereign, the country they love and their family.

Despite being one of the most familiar tales on the planet and one that has been parodied or imitated for decades, Martin Bourboulon offers the world a near-cinematic masterpiece. His willingness to respect the original tale with only a few minor contemporary changes makes this a refreshing retelling of this historic trio. Nicolas Bolduc’s cinematography is stunning and will draw the audience into this world to such a degree that they may be able to smell the musty streets, taste the amazing food, or feel the breeze of each sword as it flashes by their ears. The casting was perfect, from the ideal choices of lead characters to the nuanced supporting cast on both sides of this action-packed drama.

While the pacing, oh the pacing, it's heart-stopping, a thrilling venture into this world of swords, horseback riding and fighting for royal honour. Outside of some of the unnecessary social commentary added in for modern tastes, the majority of this tale will make you forget that you are reading subtitles and will make you feel as if you are as French as this wonderfully written tale is to see. Both chapters continue the saga with brilliant energy. Despite the familiarity of this much-loved storyline, the Musketeers prove they are heroes who transcend time. The main drawback of The Three Musketeers: D'Artagnan and Milady is having to wait to see the next instalment of this cinematic triumph.

Reel Dialogue: Does religion cause all wars?

This point is at the heart of Dumas’ adventure, which blames religion for all of society's ills. In this world of would-be assassins, royalty, musketeers and the corrupt church, religion is at the heart of all that has gone wrong in society in history. Yet, it might surprise people to know that religion is not the cause of all violence in the world. Since atheist regimes have just as much blood on their hands in the mistreatment of humanity.

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? Jeremiah 17:9

The real problem goes straight to the heart of mankind. Our hearts are desperately wicked. If left to our own devices, the human race would be the demise of itself. This wasn't God's original plan, but thankfully, He did step in at the beginning of humanity and with His Son, Jesus, to answer this 'heart' issue. Reach out to us at Third Space to discuss this and other topics from The Three Musketeers: D'Artagnan & Milady in more detail.

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23