Jeanne du Barry follows the remarkable rise of Jeanne Vaubernier, a woman born into poverty who refuses to accept the limitations society places on her. From a young age, she develops a fascination with literature, beauty, and the idea of shaping her own destiny. Her charm and intelligence quickly draw attention, and she becomes a well-known figure in Parisian social circles, admired as much for her wit as for her boldness. Despite her humble background, Jeanne navigates the world of salons and aristocrats with ease, driven by an ambition that sets her apart.
Her life takes a dramatic turn when she meets the influential Count du Barry, who recognizes her potential and introduces her to the highest echelons of French society. Their relationship places Jeanne in a controversial position, as the elite view her presence with suspicion and disdain. Still, her confidence and refusal to conform earn her both admirers and enemies. The Count, impressed by her spirit, decides to present her at the royal court, a move that shocks those who guard the rigid social hierarchies of the era.
When Jeanne is introduced to King Louis XV, an unexpected connection forms between them. Unlike the courtiers who surround him, Jeanne treats the king with honesty and warmth, qualities he has long been denied. Their bond grows quickly, and Louis elevates her to the status of his official mistress—a decision that sends shockwaves through Versailles. Jeanne’s arrival challenges the traditions that have guided court life for decades, making her a symbol of both scandal and rebellion.
Life at Versailles proves to be a maze of intrigue and manipulation. Jeanne faces constant criticism, not only for her origins but also for her influence over the king. She responds with resilience, asserting her place with dignity even as whispers and hostility follow her every step. Her ability to hold her ground in such an unforgiving environment highlights her strength and vulnerability in equal measure.
Yet beneath the glittering surfaces, political tensions rise as France inches toward economic and social unrest. Jeanne, despite her position, becomes entangled in the conflicts that ripple through the court. Her relationship with Louis remains a source of solace, but it also isolates her from those who would rather see her fall.
As the king’s health declines, Jeanne’s future becomes increasingly uncertain. Her life, once filled with privilege, is threatened by shifting political landscapes and the looming changes that will soon reshape the nation. When Louis dies, the court turns against her instantly, forcing Jeanne to confront the stark reality that her protection has vanished.
The film closes with Jeanne facing exile, stripped of the splendor she once enjoyed. Yet even in her darkest moments, she retains the dignity and courage that defined her rise. Her story becomes a portrait of a woman who dared to defy expectations, loved fiercely, and lived on her own terms, leaving behind a legacy as complex and captivating as the age she inhabited.
