Vatel (2000): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 2000, Vatel is a drama, romance and history film directed by Roland Joffé, running about 125 minutes. “Some men are too noble to live among aristocracy.” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. In 1671, with war brewing with Holland, a penniless prince invites Louis XIV to three days of festivities at a chateau in Chantilly. The prince wants a commission as a general, so the extravagances are to impress the king. In charge of all is the steward, Vatel, a man of honor, talent, and low birth. The prince is craven in his longing for stature: no task is too menial or dishonorable for him to give Vatel. While Vatel tries to sustain dignity, he finds himself attracted to Anne de Montausier, the king's newest mistress. In Vatel, she finds someone who's authentic, living out his principles within the casual cruelties of court politics. Can the two of them escape unscathed?

Who’s in it. Vatel stars Gérard Depardieu as Francois Vatel, Uma Thurman as Anne de Montausier, Tim Roth as Marquis de Lauzun and Timothy Spall as Gourville, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 6.1/10, Vatel has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Vatel page.

If you liked it. Fans of Vatel tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.