Introduction
Step back in time to the late 1800s, where the city of Paris is abuzz with creativity and innovation. At the heart of it all is engineer Gustave Eiffel, brilliantly portrayed by Romain Duris, seeking his next grand project after his triumph with the Statue of Liberty. “Eiffel,” a film directed by Martin Bourboulon, takes us on a semi-fictional journey through the conception and construction of the iconic Eiffel Tower, while also weaving in a captivating love story. Starring opposite Duris is the radiant Emma Mackey, known for her role in “Sex Education,” in her first French-speaking role as Adrienne, Eiffel’s long-lost love. However, amidst the steel and passion, “Eiffel” struggles to strike a lasting chord, leaving viewers wanting more.
The Love Story Unraveled
“Eiffel” centers on the rekindling of a decades-old romance between Gustave Eiffel and Adrienne. Emma Mackey’s portrayal of Adrienne brings a luminous charm to the character, capturing the essence of what made Eiffel fall for her in the first place. However, the film falls short in fully developing Adrienne’s character, leaving her on the fringes of the narrative, almost as a beautiful myth. The love story, while poetically integrated into the plot, lacks the depth needed to truly captivate the audience.
Visually Striking but Dimmed Impact
The film boasts some visually striking scenes, showcasing the chemistry between the lead characters. A mesmerizing long take of Adrienne and Gustave on a dance floor escalates the tension and adds a touch of magic to their relationship. Moments atop the half-built Eiffel Tower at golden hour are breathtaking and add a sense of grandeur to the film. However, the film’s dreary and sepia-toned aesthetic, though perhaps befitting the historical period, dampens the vibrancy that a love story of this magnitude demands.
The Making of a Monument
Despite the love story’s shortcomings, “Eiffel” shines when delving into the construction of the iconic French monument itself. The film offers intriguing insights into the politics, pushback from Parisians, and Eiffel’s innovative approaches to safety and architectural ingenuity. These aspects captivate the audience, providing a fascinating look at how the Eiffel Tower came to life and became a symbol of Paris.
A Forgettable Affair
While “Eiffel” manages to offer glimpses of brilliance, it ultimately leaves viewers wanting more. The film’s predictable love story and underdeveloped characters diminish its impact. Emma Mackey’s charm is underused, and Romain Duris’ portrayal lacks the depth required to make Eiffel a compelling protagonist. Though the cinematography and insights into the monument’s construction hold promise, “Eiffel” remains a forgettable and bittersweet love affair.
Conclusion
“Eiffel” attempts to intertwine romance and architectural brilliance in the tale of the iconic Eiffel Tower’s creation. While Emma Mackey’s luminous performance shines bright, the film struggles to fully immerse viewers in the love story. Instead, its strength lies in the riveting insights into the tower’s construction, allowing us to witness the passion and dedication that brought this architectural marvel to life. While not a soaring success, “Eiffel” leaves us with a reminder that even in iron and stone, there can be whispers of love and secrets of the heart.