Jefferson in Paris 1995
"A powerful man torn between his love for one woman and his secret desire for another."
James Ivory's *Jefferson in Paris (1995)* transports viewers to the glittering yet turbulent world of pre-revolutionary France, where Thomas Jefferson navigates grief, duty, and forbidden desire. As the widowed U.S.
Director: James Ivory
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Jefferson in Paris (1995) about?
This historical drama follows Thomas Jefferson, a grieving widower who takes up his post as U.S. ambassador in Paris. As he immerses himself in the city's high society, he becomes entangled in a romantic dilemma between the captivating artist Maria Cosway and the arrival of his daughter's companion, Sally Hemings, whose presence ignites a personal reckoning.
Who directed Jefferson in Paris?
The film was directed by James Ivory, a master of period dramas and intimate character studies, known for his collaborations with Merchant Ivory Productions.
Who stars in Jefferson in Paris?
The cast features Nick Nolte as Thomas Jefferson, Greta Scacchi as Maria Cosway, Thandiwe Newton as Sally Hemings, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Simon Callow in pivotal roles.
Is Jefferson in Paris (1995) worth watching?
With its rich historical setting and strong performances, *Jefferson in Paris* offers a compelling drama for fans of period films. While it may not be Ivory's most widely celebrated work, its exploration of love and power in turbulent times makes it a thoughtful addition to the genre. Those who enjoy character-driven narratives will find much to appreciate.
How long is Jefferson in Paris?
The film runs for 139 minutes (approximately 2 hours and 19 minutes).
🎥 Trailer
About Jefferson in Paris (1995) — A Founding Father's Love and Legacy in Pre-Revolutionary France
James Ivory's *Jefferson in Paris (1995)* transports viewers to the glittering yet turbulent world of pre-revolutionary France, where Thomas Jefferson navigates grief, duty, and forbidden desire. As the widowed U.S. ambassador, he grapples with the rigid hierarchies of aristocratic Europe while falling under the spell of the radiant artist Maria Cosway. Yet when his daughter arrives from Virginia with the enigmatic Sally Hemings—a young enslaved woman whose presence stirs Jefferson's deepest conflicts—the ambassador finds himself torn between duty and passion. Set against the opulent backdrop of 18th-century Paris, Ivory's film blends historical drama with intimate romance, exploring themes of power, morality, and the personal cost of legacy.
Starring Nick Nolte in a nuanced portrayal of Jefferson, the cast shines alongside Greta Scacchi as Cosway and the breakout Thandiwe Newton as Hemings, grounding the story in emotional authenticity. With its lush cinematography and thought-provoking narrative, *Jefferson in Paris (1995)* invites audiences to ponder the complexities of a founding father's private struggles against the sweeping tide of history.