Curiosa (2019) is a visually sumptuous and provocative French historical drama that explores the passionate, unconventional relationship between two 19th-century literary figures, Pierre Louÿs and Marie de Régnier. Set in the Belle Époque, the film follows young Marie, who enters into a marriage of convenience with the wealthy Henri de Régnier but finds herself irresistibly drawn to his friend, the libertine poet Pierre. What begins as a mentorship in poetry and photography evolves into a daring exploration of desire, sexual freedom, and artistic expression, challenging the rigid social conventions of the era.

Director Lou Jeunet captures the opulence and repression of the period with exquisite detail, using lush cinematography and evocative costumes to frame this story of forbidden love. Noémie Merlant delivers a compelling performance as Marie, portraying her transformation from an innocent young woman to a confident artist navigating a complex web of relationships. Niels Schneider is equally captivating as the charismatic and provocative Pierre Louÿs. While the film's pacing and narrative focus have divided some critics, its commitment to portraying female desire and artistic ambition from a historical perspective is noteworthy.

Viewers should watch Curiosa for its bold thematic exploration and its beautiful, atmospheric rendering of a bygone Paris. It's more than a simple period romance; it's a film about the collision of creativity and passion, and the personal costs of pursuing both. The 5.4 IMDb rating may reflect its challenging subject matter for some, but for those interested in character-driven dramas, French cinema, or unconventional love stories based on real events, Curiosa offers a rich and thought-provoking experience.