Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Comedy drama set in an epidemic has strong language, sex.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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The Grand Duke of Corsica
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THE GRAND DUKE OF CORSICA tells the story of architect Alfred Rott (Timothy Spall), who heads to Malta to take on the job of designing a new concert hall. Given his combative demeanor and provocative work, he is soon fired. But then Rott finds work for a dying billionaire -- who calls himself the Grand Duke of Corsica (Peter Stormare) -- who wants Rott to build his mausoleum.
Is It Any Good?
With its unapologetic, unlikable lead character and it's depiction of ultra-wealthy lifestyles, this is a film that will by no means be for everyone. But for all its flaws, The Grand Duke of Corsica is a unique and contemporary piece of cinematic storytelling. The film's unusual tone may push many audience members away. But the ace up its sleeve -- and what could well keep them in their seat and invested in the narrative -- is the brilliant Spall.
Spall is wonderful as the narcissistic architect Rott. He carries the film, although he is helped along hugely by Stormare as the eccentric Duke, whose unique blend of darkness and whimsicality matches the film's atmosphere perfectly. So while this may not quite be a film suited for everyone's tastes, it's nice to see something a little bit different, at the very least.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the strong language in The Grand Duke of Corsica. Did it seem necessary or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
How did the movie portray sex? Was it affectionate? Respectful? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
Talk about the character of Alfred Rott. Why do you think he was the way he was? Was it unusual to see such a dislikable character take center stage in a movie? Can you think of any other movies that have a similar lead?
Discuss the lack of women characters in the movie. Did you notice? How might the story have been different if the women characters had more prominent roles? Why is representation important in movies?
How did the movie deal with issues surrounding death? How did certain characters face their own mortality?
Movie Details
- In theaters : October 15, 2021
- On DVD or streaming : October 15, 2021
- Cast : Timothy Spall , Peter Stormare , Alicia Agneson
- Director : Daniel Graham
- Inclusion Information : Latino Movie Director(s)
- Studio : Vertical Entertainment
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : History
- Run time : 93 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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