The Last Duel

                Based on a true story, this new film is the story of the last duel fought in 1386 France. The duel is fought to decide the fate of a squire accused of rape. Directed by Ridley Scott, it is a fascinating drama told from three points of view, a device most famously used in the classic Japanese film, "Rashomon". Mr. Scott films the battle scenes and of course, the title duel with great aplomb, violent, vicious, and very realistic.  His dramatic scenes are just as powerful, due to the chemistry of its terrific cast.

              The film stars Adam Driver, Matt Damon, Ben Affleck and Jody Comer as Marguerite de Carrouges. Mr. Damon and Mr. Affleck co-wrote the script with Nicole Holofcener.  At the start of the film, Mr. Damon's Jean de Carrouges and Mr. Driver's Jacques Le Gris are friends fighting side by side. When Count Pierre d'Alencon, played by Mr. Affleck, names Le Grius his Overlord, the friendship of the two men sours as their fates move in opposite directions. de Carrouges marries Ms. Comer to improve his station and it is then that the relationship of the three intersect told from three "chapters", each telling a different "truth".

               While all the acting is excellent (you'd expect nothing less from this cast), Mr. Driver and Ms. Comer both stand out. Both play complicated roles due to the different perspectives of the "chapters" and while Mr. Damon also handles the subtle differences in his character in each chapter well, it is Mr. Driver and Ms. Comer that really carry the emotional and difficult story. Mr. Affleck, on the other hand, plays the Count as a privileged, rich boy and is just annoying but I imagine that's how the part was written.

                For a story that takes place in 1386, it resonates well even today and unfortunately,  that's a scary realization. The film is an excellent historical drama, filled with intense moments both on and off the battlefield that is thought provoking long after it ends.