One of the more muted films of Corsini's career, a picture that quilts its fierce political heart with a woolly layer of female martyrdom.

There are incidental efforts to offer social-historical comment on France in turbulent times. But it is the characterisation that really holds the attention.

It later takes a decidedly darker turn...but the emotional power is consistently undercut by the sense that we, as an audience, are being roundly manipulated.

Un amour impossible is a tough watch, but oh, what a beautiful film. The period costumes are not only gorgeous but the textures are rendered with such precision you feel like you could reach out and touch them.