In 2005, Eleanor Coppola filmed 80 hours of behind-the-scenes footage while her daughter Sofia Coppola directed “Marie Antoinette.” This film was ambitious, featuring unprecedented access to the stunning Palace of Versailles, a budget of $40 million, and a shooting schedule of 57 days.
Eleanor, known for her documentary “Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker’s Apocalypse,” had originally intended to capture moments for marketing rather than produce her own film. Sofia shared with The Associated Press, “She loved to show how things are made. The truth of what’s really going on behind that was always interesting to her.”
After the release of “Marie Antoinette,” Eleanor felt frustrated that her footage was not compiled in a way that highlighted the film’s beautiful costumes designed by Milena Canonero. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she revisited her footage and envisioned a documentary that would showcase the creative process behind the film.
Sadly, Eleanor passed away in April 2024 before seeing her dream realized, but her daughter Sofia completed the project. The resulting documentary, titled “Making Marie Antoinette,” is currently showing in select theaters and will be available to stream on Mubi starting November 6.
Sofia noted how she drew inspiration from documentary filmmaker Frederick Wiseman, known for his observational style that lacks traditional plots. “I thought, oh, maybe it’s cool for the movie just to feel like what it was like on the set,” she explained. However, both Eleanor and Sofia initially worried about the lack of drama in the footage, as there were no crises like those depicted in Eleanor’s previous documentary.
“It’s like the opposite of ‘Hearts of Darkness,’” Sofia said, noting that her mother’s film was “so macho and masculine” while “Making Marie Antoinette” represents a more feminine perspective.
As they reviewed the footage, they discovered precious moments, such as Eleanor’s first meeting with Sofia’s then-boyfriend, Thomas Mars, and late singer Marianne Faithfull admiring Eleanor’s work. Sofia expressed that this project was a way to honor her mother’s vision, saying, “It was always kind of just finishing what she started out.”
In the documentary, viewers also witness Sofia navigating her role as a director, including moments of vulnerability. “I hope that it’s helpful for people to see that there is evolution of people,” she remarked. “You don’t just walk on set and be this experienced person, like you have to find it.”
To enrich the film, Sofia used her mother’s journal entries, which are narrated by Diane Lane, a long-time family friend. Sofia explained, “She really loved my mom. She knew her so well.”
“Marie Antoinette” had a rocky debut, being booed at the Cannes Film Festival and receiving mixed reviews from critics. Roger Ebert, however, praised it, stating that changes would diminish its “fragile magic.” Over the years, the film has experienced a cultural renaissance, celebrating its 20th anniversary with a 4K re-release, a behind-the-scenes book, and an exhibition at the Petit Trianon in Versailles.
For Sofia, this project is also a chance to showcase her mother’s artistry and documentary skills. “It’s such a gift that she gave us this footage,” Sofia reflected, emphasizing her mother’s unique perspective on filmmaking.
