Fan-Fan the Tulip (1952)

In a bustling 18th-century Paris, Fanfan, a charming yet indolent young man, finds himself at a crossroads. Fleeing from the shackles of a loveless marriage to a farmer's daughter, Fanfan is lured into joining the French army with the tantalizing prophecy of immense glory and the hand of the king's daughter in marriage. This prophecy, however, is a clever ruse spun by the captivating Adeline, a supposed gypsy girl who is, in reality, the daughter of his new sergeant. Undeterred by the truth, Fanfan clings to the enchanting dream spun by the faux prediction. He embarks on a thrilling journey of swashbuckling escapades, navigating the tumultuous tides of the military world, all while keeping an eye on the grand prize - the king's daughter. His audacious attempt to introduce himself to Louis XV's daughter, Henriette, lands him in hot water, culminating in a death sentence. But fate has its own twist as Adeline, now his saving grace, convinces Louis XV to spare Fanfan's life. Freedom doesn't come without a price and the king retaliates by attempting to kidnap Adeline, igniting a high-stakes chase. Despite Fanfan's relentless pursuit, he fails to rescue Adeline but stumbles upon a greater victory - capturing the enemy's supreme commander. In an unexpected turn of events, Louis XV, grateful for Fanfan's heroic achievement, promotes him and grants him permission to marry one of his daughters. The daughter, as destiny would have it, is none other than Adeline, now adopted by the king. As Fanfan navigates these dynamic adventures, the film offers a subtle critique of war and the powers that be, all set against the vibrant backdrop of 18th-century France.

Fan-Fan the Tulip is an adventure movie featuring Gérard Philipe and directed by Christian-Jaque.

Fan-Fan the Tulip is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.