Sofia Coppola’s 2006 film "Marie Antoinette" has experienced a notable resurgence two decades after its initial release, now widely appreciated for its unique portrayal of the French queen and its vibrant aesthetic. A new documentary, “Making Marie Antoinette,” explores the director’s creative process during the production of the costume drama and highlights the close relationship between Coppola and her late mother, Eleanor Coppola, who filmed extensive behind-the-scenes footage.
The documentary, currently in theaters and set to stream on Mubi beginning November 6, offers an intimate view of Sofia Coppola’s leadership on set. At the time, Coppola was coming off significant success with “Lost in Translation” and “The Virgin Suicides” but had yet to undertake a project of such scale. Filming took place at the Palace of Versailles with a large crew and numerous extras, depicting the life of Queen Marie Antoinette, played by Kirsten Dunst.
Eleanor Coppola’s archival footage reveals the director’s distinct style: calm and introspective yet resolute in her vision. Sofia Coppola noted that her mother’s quiet strength influenced her own directorial approach. Reflecting on her early career, Coppola acknowledged feeling less comfortable asserting herself behind the camera, but pointed to growth over time and expressed hope that her experience would encourage emerging filmmakers.
When initially released, "Marie Antoinette" met mixed critical reception, with some reviewers dismissing its pastel palette and contemporary soundtrack as frivolous or overly feminine. These responses often stemmed from male critics who found the film’s tone unrelatable. However, over the years, the film has garnered a more positive reevaluation, particularly among younger audiences, including Gen Z, who view it as a fashion and cultural touchstone. Coppola remarked on the film’s appeal beyond its original audience, highlighting its role in fostering connections among mothers and daughters as well as resonating with young gay men.
The film’s narrative focuses on a youthful monarch struggling with an unhappy marriage and excessive spending, themes that, Coppola suggested, hold renewed relevance today amid global uncertainties. She noted the growing cultural recognition and changing perspectives that have contributed to the film’s enduring appeal.
The documentary was completed posthumously for Eleanor Coppola, who passed away in 2024 at age 87. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she and her daughter reviewed hundreds of hours of unused footage with the goal of creating a full-length film. Eleanor prioritized conveying the intricate craftsmanship involved in the original production, including costumes, elaborate sets, and food presentations, and insisted on showing the realities of filmmaking, including moments of fatigue and vulnerability.
Narrated by actress Diane Lane using excerpts from Eleanor’s journals, “Making Marie Antoinette” seeks to present a truthful account of the creative challenges and collaborations behind the film. Sofia Coppola also expressed interest in collaborating again with Kirsten Dunst, emphasizing their ongoing creative relationship.
Coppola credited her mother with fostering her curiosity and attention to detail, traits she now shares with her own daughters, Romy and Cosima Mars. She described the emotional resonance of revisiting her mother’s footage as she watches Romy develop her own artistic career, noting the joy of encouraging creative expression within the family.