Antoinette is the Duchess of Langeais, a married coquette who frequents the most extravagant balls in 1820's Paris during The Restoration, where hypocrisy and vanity reign.

Upon the handsome general, Armand de Montriveau's first meeting with her, he realized it was true love from that moment on. Flattered by his attentions, the alluring Antoinette orchestrates a calculating game of seduction, but she repeatedly refuses Montriveau. Despite his sincere romantic declarations, Montriveau's passion remains unfulfilled. When the humiliated Montriveau eventually seeks his revenge, Antoinette's love awakens. But it may well be too late for the star-crossed lovers.

Also Known As: Don't Touch the Axe

Production Status: In Production/Awaiting Release

Genres: Art/Foreign, Drama, Romance and Adaptation

Running Time: 2 hrs. 17 min.

Release Date: February 22nd, 2008 (limited)

MPAA Rating: Not Rated

Distributors: First Take (IFC)

Production Co.: Pierre Grise Productions, Arte France Cinema, Cinema Undici

Produced in: Italy

Actors

Jeanne Balibar???????????? Antoinette de Langeais

Guillaume Depardieu????Armand de Montriveau

Michel Piccoli????????????? Vidame de Pamiers

Bulle Ogier??????????????????Princesse de Blamont-Chauvry

Barbet Schroeder????????Le Duc de Grandlieu