The Maid of Rouen Named Boule de Suif

Synopsis

"The Maid of Rouen Named Boule de Suif" (1989), directed by Natalya Lapina, is a reflective Russian drama based on the classic short story by Guy de Maupassant. Set during the Franco-Prussian War, the film follows a diverse group of passengers fleeing Rouen under Prussian occupation. Among them is Boule de Suif, a spirited and morally complex woman whose courage and integrity come into sharp focus amid the group's struggles and social tensions. The movie explores themes of sacrifice, hypocrisy, and honor, highlighting the harsh realities of war and human nature through intimate character portrayals. With its poignant narrative and period authenticity, the film offers a somber meditation on societal values and personal dignity.

Cast

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  Natalya Lapina

  Pyshka

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  Aleksandr Abdulov

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  Armen Dzhigarkhanyan

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  Natalya Krachkovskaya

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  Leonid Yarmolnik

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  Mamuka Kikaleishvili

Reviews

Critically, "The Maid of Rouen Named Boule de Suif" received mixed reviews. According to IMDb, the movie holds a modest rating of 5.8/10, indicating an average reception from viewers. Some critics praised the film for its faithful adaptation of Maupassant's original story and the nuanced performance delivered by Natalya Lapina, highlighting her portrayal as emotionally compelling and sincere. However, others noted that the pacing occasionally felt slow and that the film's production values might appear dated compared to contemporary cinema standards. Reviews from niche sites appreciated the historical context and moral questions raised but felt the film lacked the dramatic intensity to fully engage broader audiences. Overall, it is regarded more as an art-house piece appealing to fans of classic literature adaptations rather than mainstream viewers seeking dynamic storytelling or action.