Mademoiselle Paradis

A fascinating and factual look at 18th century (1700s+) European life as we "look" into the life of Maria Theresia von Paradis an accomplished pianist & composer (possible connection w/Mozart) who was blind (or nearly so) at a young age; gains some vision w/the help of the famous Mesmer & his use of magnetism to affect biology. But, at a cost. Acting was superb especially the in-demand actress Maria Dragus as Paradis. Sets, props, costumes, makeup all aristocratically world class. Remarkable look at the extent people went to achieve a certain appearance from wigs to skin emollients many of which were disgusting at least and even poisonous such as lead. Not uncommon at that time because of the prevalence of skin parasites, diseases, and lost teeth. She died in 1824, and accomplished much despite the visual challenges.

Mademoiselle Paradis is the true story of blind Austrian prodigy pianist Maria Theresia Paradis (1759-1824) and her treatment under controversial doctor Franz Anton Mesmer (who believed there is an invisible aether coursing through us, that the treatment of this liquid could cure diseases, and from whom we get the terms 'mesmerize' and 'animal magnetism'). He was, it would seem, able to cure her blindness long as she was in his care.

I don't know if the film is interesting from a historical point of view or if it's only the director that makes it so. What I do know is interesting is the directing, which makes good use of lighting and contrast to illuminate the story of this blind young woman and dispel the shadows around medicine and misogyny in late 18th century Europe.

The actors and their costumes blend in perfectly with the setting, so fans of period dramas will find a lot to admire here. In short, this film is like Mesmer's liquid: no one will ever see it, but that doesn't mean it's without power.