Plot Summary

Although Emilie is curious about what Sade can offer her, she is a feisty lass and is wary because of the rumors of Sade's scandalous past. Soon, though, the would-be lovers have bigger problems to attend to--Robespierre, his Cult of the Supreme Being, and the bloodiest phase of the Terror. Sade's mistress, Sensible (Marianne Denicourt), has been keeping them at bay by giving herself to Fournier (Grégoire Colin), a member of Robespierre's entourage. But how long will that ploy hold them back? And whose head will roll next? Benoît Jacquot's film balances the hysteria of the Terror and the idleness of the French aristocracy with striking detail and poise. The sumptuous cinematography and spirited performances by Auteuil and newcomer Le Besco make SADE a film that is often funny, often frightening, and very entertaining. This film was screened as part of the Rendez-Vous with French Cinema 2001 festival organized by The Film Society of Lincoln Center in New York City.