Victor Hugo’s Ruy Blas is a captivating story that has been adapted into various forms, including the 1971 film Delusions of Grandeur by Gérard Oury.
This comprehensive guide will take you through the intricate journey of the book and movie, as well as provide a detailed analysis of the story’s characters, settings, and key moments.
Get ready to delve deep into the world of Ruy Blas and its unforgettable film adaptation, Delusions of Grandeur.
Book summary: Ruy Blas by Victor Hugo
Ruy Blas is a tragic drama written by Victor Hugo in 1838. Set in 17th-century Spain, the story revolves around the love triangle between the Queen of Spain, her powerful Prime Minister, and a commoner named Ruy Blas.
The plot thickens as Ruy Blas, a servant to the Prime Minister, falls in love with the Queen and is manipulated into becoming a pawn in the political games of the court.
As the story unfolds, Ruy Blas discovers the corruption and deceit within the Spanish court, leading to a dramatic climax where he must choose between his love for the Queen and his loyalty to the country.
The tale is a powerful exploration of the themes of love, ambition, betrayal, and the struggle for power.
Movie summary: Delusions of Grandeur (1971)
Delusions of Grandeur, directed by Gérard Oury, is a 1971 French comedy film adapted from Victor Hugo’s Ruy Blas.
The movie stars Louis de Funí¨s as Don Salluste, the villainous Prime Minister of Spain, and Yves Montand as Blaze, a commoner who is forced to impersonate the nobleman Ruy Blas.
In this adaptation, the focus shifts from the tragic love story to the comedic aspects of the tale. The film is filled with hilarious scenes and witty dialogues, providing a fresh take on Hugo’s classic drama.
Delusions of Grandeur was a commercial success in France and has since become a cult classic among fans of French comedy.
Parent guide: what to expect in the film adaptation
Parents should be aware that Delusions of Grandeur is a comedy that contains some mild language, slapstick humor, and romantic situations.
The film is generally suitable for most audiences, but some scenes may not be appropriate for younger viewers. Parental guidance is advised for children under the age of 12.
When and where: setting and film locations
The story of Ruy Blas takes place in 17th-century Spain, during the reign of King Charles II.
The film adaptation, Delusions of Grandeur, stays true to this historical setting and features stunning locations that transport the viewer back in time.
The movie was primarily filmed in Spain, with key scenes shot in the Royal Palace of Madrid, the Alcázar of Segovia, and the Plaza Mayor in Salamanca.
These locations provide an authentic and visually stunning backdrop to the story, immersing the audience in the world of the Spanish court.
Who’s who: character analysis and comparison
The characters of Ruy Blas and Delusions of Grandeur are both fascinating and complex. In the book, Ruy Blas is a tragic hero who is torn between his love for the Queen and his loyalty to his country.
In the film, however, Blaze (played by Yves Montand) is portrayed as a more lighthearted character who finds himself in comical situations as he impersonates Ruy Blas.
Don Salluste, the Prime Minister, is a cunning and ruthless antagonist in both the book and the film. Played by Louis de Funí¨s in the movie, Don Salluste’s comedic antics add a layer of humor to the story, without compromising the character’s wicked nature.
The love interest of Ruy Blas, Queen Maria, remains a central figure in the story. In both the book and the film, she is portrayed as a strong and independent woman who struggles with the responsibilities of her position and her feelings for Ruy Blas.
Memorable quotes from the book and movie
Ruy Blas and Delusions of Grandeur are filled with memorable quotes that capture the essence of the story and its characters. Some notable quotes from the book include:
- “Love is like a tree: it grows by itself, roots itself deeply in our being, and often continues to grow green over a heart in ruins.” – Victor Hugo, Ruy Blas
- “I am the master of my fate, the captain of my soul.” – Victor Hugo, Ruy Blas
From the film, some memorable lines include:
- “I don’t want you to become a nobleman. I want you to become a scoundrel!” – Don Salluste, Delusions of Grandeur
- “You can’t look down on me anymore. I’m a gentleman now!” – Blaze, Delusions of Grandeur
Soundtrack by Michel Polnareff and Hervé Roy: an overview
The soundtrack for Delusions of Grandeur, composed by Michel Polnareff and Hervé Roy, adds a lively and energetic atmosphere to the film. The music, with its mix of baroque and contemporary styles, perfectly complements the comedic tone of the movie.
Tracks like “La Folie des grandeurs” and “L’amour avec toi” have become iconic pieces of French film music, further solidifying Delusions of Grandeur’s status as a classic comedy.
Curiosities and trivia about Delusions of Grandeur
- Delusions of Grandeur was the second highest-grossing film in France in 1971, surpassed only by The Aristocats.
- The film’s original title, “La Folie des grandeurs,” is a play on the French expression “la folie des grandeurs,” which means “delusions of grandeur.”
- French actor Louis de Funí¨s, who played Don Salluste, was known for his comedic roles and expressive facial expressions. His performance in Delusions of Grandeur is considered one of his best.
- The film’s costume designer, Jacques Fonteray, won a César Award for his work on Delusions of Grandeur.
Tips for cosplay: dressing like your favorite characters
Dressing up as your favorite characters from Ruy Blas or Delusions of Grandeur can be a fun and creative way to connect with the story.
Here are some tips to help you create the perfect costume:
- Research the historical clothing of 17th-century Spain to get a sense of the styles and materials used during the period.
- For Ruy Blas/Blaze, consider incorporating elements of both the commoner and nobleman attire, as his character transitions between these two worlds.
- For Don Salluste, focus on extravagant and ornate clothing that reflects his status as the Prime Minister and his cunning personality.
- For Queen Maria, look for elegant dresses and accessories that showcase her royal status and strong character.
Victor Hugo: a brief biography and exploration of his works
Victor Hugo (1802-1885) was a French poet, novelist, and playwright. He is considered one of the most significant French Romantic writers and is best known for his novels Les Misérables and The Hunchback of Notre-Dame.
Throughout his career, Hugo championed social and political causes, which are often reflected in his works.
In addition to Ruy Blas, Victor Hugo wrote several other plays, including Hernani, Marion Delorme, and The Burgraves. His works are characterized by their exploration of themes such as love, ambition, betrayal, and the struggle for power.
Ending explained: dissecting the conclusion of Ruy Blas and Delusions of Grandeur
The endings of Ruy Blas and Delusions of Grandeur differ significantly due to the tonal shift from tragedy to comedy. In the book, Ruy Blas is ultimately unable to escape the corruption and deceit that surrounds him, leading to a tragic conclusion where he sacrifices himself for the greater good.
In the film, the story takes a more lighthearted turn, with Blaze and Don Salluste engaging in a final battle of wits and cunning. The movie ends on a high note, with Blaze and the Queen finding happiness together.
Remake, sequel, and spin-off possibilities
Given the enduring popularity of Ruy Blas and Delusions of Grandeur, it is not surprising that there have been discussions of remakes, sequels, and spin-offs.
While no official projects have been announced, there is always the possibility that the story could be reimagined for a modern audience.
Some potential ideas could include a contemporary retelling of Ruy Blas, a sequel that explores the lives of the characters after the events of the story, or a spin-off focusing on the adventures of Don Salluste.
Other notable media by Gérard Oury
Gérard Oury (1919-2006) was a French film director, actor, and writer.
In addition to Delusions of Grandeur, he is known for his work on several other successful comedies, including The Sucker (1965), The Mad Adventures of Rabbi Jacob (1973), and The Wing or the Thigh? (1976).
Oury’s films are characterized by their witty humor, engaging characters, and often satirical take on societal issues.
Similar media to Delusions of Grandeur and Ruy Blas
If you’re a fan of Ruy Blas and Delusions of Grandeur, you may enjoy exploring other works by Victor Hugo, such as Les Misérables, The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, and The Man Who Laughs. Additionally, you might appreciate other French comedies like The Intouchables, Amélie, and The Dinner Game.
For those interested in the historical setting, films such as The Three Musketeers, Cyrano de Bergerac, and Elizabeth may also be of interest.
Book club questions for Ruy Blas and Delusions of Grandeur discussions
- How does the theme of ambition and the struggle for power manifest in both Ruy Blas and Delusions of Grandeur?
- In what ways do the characters of Ruy Blas/Blaze and Don Salluste evolve throughout the story?
- How does the film adaptation change the tone of the story compared to the book? Do you feel this change is effective?
- What are some key differences and similarities between the characters and their motivations in the book and the film?
- How does the historical setting of the story influence the characters and their actions?
Video games and other interactive media inspired by the story
While there are no specific video games or interactive media based on Ruy Blas or Delusions of Grandeur, fans can find inspiration in titles that explore similar themes and settings.
Games like Assassin’s Creed, Knights of the Old Republic, and Fable all delve into the world of political intrigue, romance, and the struggle for power.
A travel guide to visit Delusions of Grandeur film locations
For fans looking to immerse themselves in the world of Delusions of Grandeur, a visit to some of the film’s stunning locations is a must.
Key sites include:
- The Royal Palace of Madrid: The official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, this historic site features beautiful architecture and gardens.
- The Alcázar of Segovia: A medieval fortress located in the city of Segovia, Spain, the Alcázar has been the setting for numerous films and TV shows.
- The Plaza Mayor in Salamanca: A beautiful square in the city of Salamanca, the Plaza Mayor is surrounded by historic buildings and bustling cafes.
Conclusion
Ruy Blas and Delusions of Grandeur are both captivating and timeless stories that continue to resonate with audiences today.
Whether you are a fan of Victor Hugo’s tragic drama or Gérard Oury’s comedic adaptation, this comprehensive guide provides all the information you need to delve deep into the world of Ruy Blas.
From character analysis and memorable quotes to travel guides and cosplay tips, this guide has something for every fan.
