In 1671, while war with Holland brews, a destitute prince invites Louis XIV to a three-day celebration at the château de Chantilly. The extravagances are intended to impress the king, as the prince desires a commission as a general. Vatel, a man of honor, ability, and humble origin, is in command of everything. The prince is avaricious in his desire for prominence; he is willing to assign Vatel any menial or dishonorable work. Vatel is attracted to Anne de Montausier, the king's newest mistress, despite his attempts to maintain his dignity. In Vatel, she discovers an individual whose beliefs are lived out inside the casual cruelty of court politics. Can the two of them escape without injury?
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In 1671, while war with Holland brews, a destitute prince invites Louis XIV to a three-day celebration at the château de Chantilly. The extravagances are intended to impress the king, as the prince desires a commission as a general. Vatel, a man of honor, ability, and humble origin, is in command of everything. The prince is avaricious in his desire for prominence; he is willing to assign Vatel any menial or dishonorable work. Vatel is attracted to Anne de Montausier, the king's newest mistress, despite his attempts to maintain his dignity. In Vatel, she discovers an individual whose beliefs are lived out inside the casual cruelty of court politics. Can the two of them escape without injury?
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