Sofia Coppola discovered a lesser-known historical detail about Marie Antoinette more than two decades ago, which inspired her unique approach to the period drama film, Marie Antoinette. Although the young queen had already been portrayed in several films and television shows over the years, Coppola presented her from a refreshing new perspective. Her story was about more than just cakes and lavish parties.

Looking back at the inspiration behind her portrayal of the historical figure, Coppola revealed what she had learned about the queen and her history.

Sofia Coppola recently sat down for a conversation on Happy Hour with Ina Garten, where she was asked about her different approach to portraying Marie Antoinette. The director revealed that she became curious when she learned from a friend that the queen was just 14 years old when she arrived at Versailles. Coppola further explained that she later read Antonia Fraser’s book about Marie Antoinette’s life, which helped her see the young queen in a more human light.

“I had no idea that she was so young and so then it made me curious,” she said. 

“I read her (Antonia Fraser’s Marie Antoinette: The Journey) book, and it was so interesting to me that it made her human and showed her all these details of her as a young girl,” Coppola added.

She further revealed how Marie Antoinette’s pet dog was taken away from her, among other details, during her conversation with Ina Garten. While the world mostly knew about her lavish spending, Coppola’s 2006 movie Marie Antoinette explores the young queen’s emotional state and isolation, trapped inside the lavishness and beauty of the palace.

Moreover, Coppola skipped many of the political events in the movie. The film received mixed reviews and heavy criticism at the time of its release. However, its dreamy pastel visuals and story that focused on the young queen became quite popular over the years.

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With that, Coppola has shared new details about making the film, and many might hope to watch and rewatch the cult classic.

Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette is available to stream online on Netflix and Apple TV. The movie can also be rented on Amazon Prime for $3.99 for a nostalgic watch. One of the most awe-inspiring details of the movie, which was released 20 years ago, remains its visuals.

Much of the filming took place at the Palace of Versailles. The director was given access to film in the actual bedrooms, gardens, and many other locations in and around the palace. Sofia Coppola’s recent comment makes it worth taking another look at Marie Antoinette to see the young queen’s story from a new perspective this time.

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What do you think about Sofia Coppola's revelation about Marie Antoinette? Let us know in the comments.