C18th makeups: Marie Antoinette

Marie Antoinette – starring Kirsten Dunst as Marie Antoinette – supposedly ‘tells the story of the most misunderstood and abused woman in history’, which is a dubious declaration on both counts – though it is arguable whether she was stupid or conniving, or both. Whatever, this vacuous but pretty film contributes little to entertainment or understanding despite Asia Argento’s – historically inaccurate brunette – madame du Barry with her beautifully contemptuous expression during her brief appearance. I’m not sure if the contempt was aimed at Marie Antoinette, Kirsten Dunst or the whole movie.

Jean-Luc Russier was the key makeup artist.