Common Sense Media Review
By Kat Halstead
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Sex, nudity, adult themes in rebellious historical drama.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Corsage
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In CORSAGE, Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Vicky Krieps) turns 40 and struggles to maintain her public image in the face of tabloid and palace gossip. Once celebrated for her beauty and fashion sense, she begins to rebel against the constraints of the expectations placed upon her, her restlessness leading her to search for excitement and freedom in its place.
Is It Any Good?
It's Krieps' central performance that helps this costume drama break out of the constraints of the genre. A sly, knowing smile here, and an exacerbated tantrum there gives Corsage a more modern, feminist slant to the life of the renowned historical figure. The film boasts a beautifully detailed setting and impressive costume design that has been nominated for numerous awards. Then there's the artistic flourishes throughout that really set the film apart. For example, the spritely scenes of the Empress frolicking in front of an early version of a video camera, and a dreamlike sequence of her swimming in a dark lake, both feel like they're delving into the character's psyche in painful yet playful ways. Elsewhere, the film drags in places, its nearly two-hour runtime a little extended for what actually unfolds. But it perfectly captures Elisabeth's rebellious nature without her actions ever becoming too theatrical, unrealistic, or leaning into shock value. It's a powerful, unusual, and ultimately enjoyable film.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the theme of gender in Corsage. What did the film say about gender stereotypes in Austria at that time, and how did Elisabeth challenge them?
Elisabeth was seen to have a number of character strengths, including courage and curiosity. Why were these important? Can you think of times when either of these traits have been useful in your own life?
How did the movie portray sex and relationships? Was it affectionate? Respectful? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
Talk about the use of strong language in the movie. Did it seem necessary or excessive? What did it contribute to the film?
How were drinking, smoking, and drugs represented? Were there consequences for using them? Why does that matter? How have attitudes changed from when the film was set?
Movie Details
- In theaters : December 23, 2022
- On DVD or streaming : July 11, 2023
- Cast : Vicky Krieps , Colin Morgan , Tamás Lengyel
- Director : Marie Kreutzer
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : IFC Films
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : History
- Character Strengths : Courage , Curiosity
- Run time : 114 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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