The new movie Cyrano is a heartfelt romantic musical that turned me into putty in its hands. Based on the timeless tale of Cyrano de Bergerac–a man gifted with words yet fated with an unconventional appearance–it’s the story of a heartbreaking and tragic love triangle. However, seeing the power of true love on screen also makes for one of the most uplifting movies to see this season.
When he learns that his friend and secret love, Roxanne, has fallen in love with another man, the gifted wordsmith Cyrano agrees to write his love letters to her. Concealing his own feelings, he resigns to living a life where he hides away his love. Directed by Joe Wright (Atonement, Pride & Prejudice), Cyrano stars Peter Dinklage in the title role.
From Stage to Screen
The original story goes back to the classic “Cyrano de Bergerac,” written by Edmond Rostand. Director Joe Wright’s Cyrano is based on the most recent stage play adapted and directed by Erica Schmidt (who’s married to Dinklage). Previous versions of the story make Cyrano’s comically long nose his character’s tragic physical feature. Yet the film uses Peter Dinklage’s short stature as the attribute that fuels Cyrano’s insecurities and society’s rebuke.
For such an open-hearted romantic musical to work, the music needs to be truly moving. And this score is. Written by The National (music written by Aaron & Bryce Dessner and lyrics by Matt Berninger & Carin Besser), Cyrano‘s soundtrack is brooding and moving in ways that fans of the band will recognize. The most sweeping song that is sure to stick with audiences is “Someone to Say.” It’s a heartwrenching and beautiful song that’s buried itself deep in my head since seeing it in the film’s trailer.
Peter Dinklage Captivates
As the title character, Peter Dinklage captivates and commands the screen. He showcases his trademark charm and wit. But seeing him long for Roxanne as a sort of doomed “Phantom of the Opera” shows even more range than what we’ve seen from him before. His chemistry with Roxanne–the centerpiece romance of the film–is also uplifting and heart-aching. As Roxanne, Haley Bennett is wonderful. Her singing voice is beautiful, her character desirable, and her character so pure-hearted.
Rounding out the cast is Kelvin Harrison Jr. as the young Christian. As the one who Roxanne falls in love with, at first sight, his role is tricky. Christian needs to play the “dumb hunk” who needs Cyrano’s words, but also someone with who we connect to and sympathize with. And Harrison Jr. plays both sides well, with a great singing voice too. The real villain role is saved for Ben Mendelsohn. As the powerful De Guiche, Mendelsohn snarls his way into banishing both Cyrano and Christian away from Roxanne–who De Guiche himself is set to marry–by sending them into a war that looms large over the country.
A Heartaching Love Story
If there’s anyone who knows how to make an impassioned romantic period piece film, it’s Joe Wright. His most recent sweeping love stories Pride & Prejudice (2005) and Atonement (2007) are among the more recent classic love stories in modern cinema. Although Cyrano is his first musical, Wright knows how to craft a heart-aching love story and make it resonate with audiences. With exceptional performances from Dinklage and Bennett, as well as The National’s moving score, Cyrano moved me in all the right ways.
Ultimately, I absolutely recommend Cyrano to fans of musicals, period piece films, or fans of sweeping romantic dramas. Fans of Joe Wright, Peter Dinklage, or The National will also find plenty to love about Cyrano. It’s an accomplished film and respectable musical. And it is sure to resonate in your head and heart long after watching.
2h 4m. ‘Cyrano’ is rated PG-13 for some strong violence, thematic and suggestive material, and brief language. In theaters on February 25, 2022.
This review originally ran on December 28, 2021.
