Joan of Arc: The Prison Chapter

An ambitious masterpiece by New Wave veteran Rivette, it is divided into two parts: the war chapter and the prison chapter. This film targets Dreyer and Cartier-Bresson, hoping to create a new classic. When the legendary historical event "Joan of Arc" occurred, the method of describing the event in writing was not yet widespread, so there are very few original records of historical facts left behind. However, the story of Joan of Arc continues to appear in literary works, stage plays, operas (oratorios) and various movie versions. There must be a reason behind this. The film tells the story of Joan of Arc from her capture, trial, and final execution. In a skirmish on May 23, 1430, Joan of Arc was captured. When she ordered the army to retreat back to the city of Compiègne, she was at the rear of the army to ensure that everyone returned to the city. However, at this time, the city of Compiègne was afraid that the British army would follow and closed the city gate before all the troops could withdraw. Joan and the remaining rearguard troops were captured by the Burgundians. In the end, the court concluded that Joan was accused of 12 crimes, but these accusations were contradictory to the record at the trial. Under duress in various ways, the illiterate Joan of Arc did not realize that the death penalty was approaching and signed a public renunciation letter that she could not understand at all. Joan of Arc has another