The film adaptation of "Versailles no Bara" (The Rose of Versailles) has sparked a wave of emotional responses from viewers, showcasing a spectrum ranging from deep admiration to disappointment. As audiences flood theaters, the very elements that have captivated fans of the original manga are both praised and critiqued.
Among the voices reflecting on this cinematic experience is Bonita, a long-time admirer of the series. "I cried so much, I couldn't stand it," she shared after experiencing the film on its opening day, January 31, 2025. For Bonita, who has cherished the original ten-volume paperback since elementary school, the movie rekindled fond memories and emotions tied to her childhood. "I have memorized key lines from volumes six to eight, and seeing the characters brought to life was deeply moving," she explained. It was not just nostalgia; it was a reaffirmation of her bond with the epic saga.
Upon her second viewing on March 19, 2025, in a nearly full theater, Bonita echoed her initial feelings. The emotional resonance of the film’s music and visuals left her overwhelmed. "Riyoko Ikeda’s illustrations came to life, and the characters felt real before me," she noted, emphasizing how the film successfully transported her into the world she had loved since childhood. The adaptation, which incorporates a musical tone reminiscent of the Takarazuka Revue, was something she accepted without feeling out of place.
In stark contrast, Sakai's experience unveiled a different side of the audience's reactions. She watched the movie without prior knowledge of the story, and her expectations veered left in disappointment. “I was disappointed,” she remarked. "That emotions were expressed not with facial expressions, but through song" took her by surprise. She felt that the film's two-hour duration forced it to compromise on character depth, limiting her connection to the narrative and the characters.
Sakai noted that the artwork was beautiful and the voice acting met her hopes. However, she still found herself wishing for a more traditional storytelling method, wherein emotions are felt through expressed actions rather than sung melodies. "It made me want to read the original work to see how it depicted everything," she added, reinforcing a sentiment that many viewers share: the desire to explore what lies behind the adaptation.
Both reviewers express that their experiences were deeply impacted by the thematic elements of "Versailles no Bara," which resonates with contemporary issues. Bonita highlighted the poignant line from the film that struck a chord with audiences: "Everyone should be kind, not strong." This reflects not only the characters’ journeys but also a message relevant in today's world. The passion and craftsmanship of the creators shine through, making it clear that this adaptation aims to honor the legacy of Ikeda's work.
The ongoing discussion around the film adaptation reveals not only the anticipation of long-time fans but also a welcoming of new audiences willing to engage with the source material. Critics like Bonita and Sakai, despite their differing views, underscore a collective interest: a bridge connecting past and present, nostalgia and fresh perspectives.
As "Versailles no Bara" continues its run, the longing for deeper exchanges among the viewers points to its success. It invites those familiar with Ikeda's world to revisit the material and newcomers to engage with it for their first time. Whether through tears of joy or reflective contemplation, the film has sparked conversations worth having, extending the life of this classic story into new realms.
In conclusion, this film adaptation stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of "Versailles no Bara," appealing to audiences old and new. Its exploration of themes surrounding love, courage, and societal issues encourages further exploration of both cinematic and literary realms.
