The Last Duel

Movie Trailer

Release Date
October 15, 2021

Genre
Historical Drama, Action

Cast & Crew

• Matt Damon as Sir Jean de Carrouges
• Adam Driver as Jacques Le Gris
• Jodie Comer as Marguerite de Carrouges
• Ben Affleck as Count Pierre d’Alençon
• Harriet Walter as Nicole de Buchard

Director
Ridley Scott

Other Movies Director is Known For

• Gladiator (2000)
• Blade Runner (1982)
• Alien (1979)
• The Martian (2015)
• Kingdom of Heaven (2005)

Producer
Ridley Scott, Kevin J. Walsh, Jennifer Fox, Nicole Holofcener, Matt Damon, Ben Affleck

Writer
Nicole Holofcener, Ben Affleck, Matt Damon (based on the book The Last Duel: A True Story of Trial by Combat in Medieval France by Eric Jager)

Budget
$100 million

Production Company
20th Century Studios, Scott Free Productions, Pearl Street Films

Running Time
153 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R

Content Advisory

• Graphic violence
• Sexual content
• Assault scenes
• Strong language

Movie Story
“The Last Duel” is a gripping historical drama set in 14th-century France, directed by Ridley Scott and based on a true story. The film revolves around the last legally sanctioned duel in France, a trial by combat between knight Sir Jean de Carrouges (Matt Damon) and squire Jacques Le Gris (Adam Driver), following accusations that Le Gris raped de Carrouges’ wife, Marguerite (Jodie Comer).

The story is told from three different perspectives, each offering a unique interpretation of the events leading up to the duel. This Rashomon-style narrative structure allows the film to explore themes of truth, honor, and justice, as well as the differing experiences of the characters involved.

Jean de Carrouges’ Perspective:
Jean, a respected knight and war hero, views himself as a loyal servant to King Charles VI and a devoted husband. His narrative paints him as a man wronged by his friend Le Gris, who he believes betrayed him both personally and politically. Jean’s version of events emphasizes his struggle to reclaim his honor and protect his wife’s dignity, ultimately leading to his challenge of Le Gris to a duel.

Jacques Le Gris’ Perspective:
From Le Gris’ point of view, he is portrayed as a charming and intelligent man, favored by the powerful Count Pierre d’Alençon (Ben Affleck). He sees himself as misunderstood and unfairly accused, believing that his affair with Marguerite was consensual. Le Gris’ narrative highlights his rise in status and influence, as well as his shock and frustration at being accused of a crime he insists he did not commit.

Marguerite de Carrouges’ Perspective:
Marguerite’s story is the emotional core of the film. Her perspective reveals the brutal reality of her experience and the courage it took to speak out against her assailant in a society that dismisses women’s voices. Marguerite’s version of events casts a stark light on the systemic injustices and the deep-seated misogyny of the time, portraying her as a strong and resilient figure who fights not only for justice but also for her own sense of self-worth.

The climax of the film is the titular duel, a brutal and intense fight that determines the fate of the three main characters. Ridley Scott masterfully crafts this sequence, blending action with emotional stakes, making the outcome both riveting and tragic.

Special Effects
“The Last Duel” features impressive production values, with meticulous attention to historical accuracy in its set designs, costumes, and weaponry. The battle scenes, including the final duel, are choreographed with gritty realism, emphasizing the brutality of medieval combat. The film’s special effects are used to enhance the authenticity of the period setting, rather than overshadowing the narrative.

Box Office Performance
Despite positive critical reviews, “The Last Duel” underperformed at the box office, grossing around $30 million worldwide against its $100 million budget. The film’s release during the COVID-19 pandemic likely impacted its commercial success, but it has since garnered a strong following on streaming platforms and received praise for its performances and storytelling.

Filming Locations

• Dordogne, France
• Château de Beynac, France
• Ireland (various locations)

Notable Quotes

• “I’m telling the truth. Does it matter?” – Marguerite de Carrouges
• “There is only one truth.” – Jean de Carrouges
• “My fate and your husband’s rests with me.” – Jacques Le Gris

Behind-the-Scenes
The screenplay for “The Last Duel” was co-written by Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, and Nicole Holofcener. This marked the first time Damon and Affleck had collaborated on a script since their Oscar-winning work on Good Will Hunting (1997). The film’s production was a reunion for the duo, who also starred in the film. Ridley Scott’s direction brought a visceral intensity to the historical drama, with a focus on character-driven storytelling.

Awards

• Nominated for a BAFTA Award (Best Costume Design)
• Nominated for a Critics’ Choice Movie Award (Best Production Design)

Final Verdict
“The Last Duel” is a powerful and thought-provoking film that examines issues of truth, justice, and gender dynamics within a historical context. With strong performances from its lead cast, particularly Jodie Comer, and Ridley Scott’s masterful direction, the film stands out as one of the more compelling historical dramas in recent years. It’s a must-watch for fans of complex narratives and medieval history.

IMDb Rating
7.4/10