Reviews

Rose of Versailles is set during the 18th century, with the main focus being around Oscar François de Jarjeyes. She is brought up as a man although actually being a woman, causing her to have a strong and dignified persona. The other focus of the story is the princess of Austria, Marie Antoinette. Her character is childish, carefree and naive. When put under unforeseen circumstances she reacts unpredictably with disregard to the consequences of her actions.

This dramatic tale about the state of France includes the rich nobles, poverty within the country and the over ruling monarchy. Interestingly, the plot wasn't simplified or dumbed-down, handling mature topics such as suicide/murder and how the country should be ruled. Even though some plot points where over/under exaggerated and some were forgotten by the next episode, the story was developed steadily. Although, towards the end the story was rushed and some was left to be narrated. This could have been used as an effect to make more of the drama seem intense but I see it as unnecessary since it would have been more interesting otherwise.

The art was glamorous during the palace scenes with sparkling lights and shimmering jewels. The importance of the extravagant clothes and accessories was displayed, as well as how people would be viewed among others. Even though some of the characters had nearly the same face and some didn't age, the characters expressions seemed realistic and weren't too over dramatic.

The characters were developed naturally and were shaped by the situations they were in, the story had an ending and art was reasonable for a anime made in the 70's.