by Jon Partridge
The Duke of Burgundy is a fascinating look at the dynamics of power in relationships. How we can all warp ourselves into the person our partner wants us to be and the strain it can cause, heightened here for dramatic and visual effect by having the couple be into BDSM. The film opens with a stunning title sequence before settling into an aloof feel; austere Entomology professor Cynthia (Sidse Babett Knudsen) assigning her maid Evelyn (Chiara D’Anna) tasks, expressing disappointment in her performance before ultimately disciplining her. The cycle repeats again the following day, many actions and words verbatim; it is then we realize theirs is a sexual relationship.
The initial perception is that Evelyn is the submissive, but in reality she is the master, the driving force behind an increasingly elaborate role-play driven by her need for discipline and punishment. It’s a need that eventually wears down Cynthia, causing fractures within their relationship. There is a kinky feel, rather sweet but subversive in its approach, for an intensely sexual film that actually contains no nudity. Only women being involved levels the playing field; the power play between the two is easier to focus on without the imbalance that is, in society’s view, inherent to a male/female relationship. It makes for a fascinating study.
Duke Of Burgundy shows an abstract, chilling beauty and decadence that brings to mind Park Chan Wook’s Stoker, but without the horror vibe. It is a quirky world, where men are entirely absent, women meet to discuss matters of moths, and a local businesswoman sells unique beds that include built in prison chambers as well as “human toilets,” all with a air of genteelness. It is unclear what era it is set in, but there is a civility to the manners and costume that hint at a bygone age.
The narrative deftly explores the issues of power and dominance within a relationship, Knudsen’s poignant performance rooting the film with D’Anna proving no less pivotal. The spark and yet lingering uncertainty between them captivates in every scene. Coupled to Nic Knowland’s exquisite cinematography and a clear influence from the oddity of Ben Wheatley as executive producer, it is an exquisite and sensual piece of filmmaking which demonstrates a profoundly witty and subversive insight into relationships.
THE PACKAGE
The Duke of Burgundy is one of the most beautiful films I have seen in years, and thankfully the Blu-ray presentation does it justice. The colors and rich and deep, contrast is superb as are details. Have a new home entertainment system? Use this to show it off.
The extras are surprisingly impressive too. Most welcome is a feature length commentary by director Peter Strickland. To accompany this is a standalone interview, still galleries, a trailer, and over 40 minutes of deleted scenes. There is also a Cat’s Eye promo concerning the music in the film as well as a curious short film Conduct Phase. A very impressive package.
THE BOTTOM LINE
In The Duke of Burgundy, Peter Strickland has delivered a film that feels reminiscent of an art installation exploring the power plays that go on in a relationship. It is exaggerated but there are nuggets of truth and devilish humor to be found for anyone who has been in a relationship. Sumptuous and essential viewing.
The Duke of Burgundy Blu-ray is released by Shout Factory on September 29th, 2015