All the Morning of the World (1991)

The French film All The Mornings of the World (1991) is an adaptation of Pascal Quignard’s book of the same name. It tells the story of aging court composer Marin Marais, who reflects on his former master, Monsieur de Sainte-Colombe – an unmatched viol player and strict Jansenist. Following his wife’s death, Sainte-Colombe finds solace in his music, raising his two daughters on his own and teaching them to play instruments. They form a consort and perform for nobles in their local area. Eventually, word of Sainte-Colombe’s talent reaches King Louis XIV and an envoy named Caignet is sent to request him to play at court. However, Sainte-Colombe coldly turns down the envoy’s invitation, as well as that of the Abbé Mathieu.

In retaliation, the King ensures that only a select few attend concerts by Sainte-Colombe and his daughters. Seeking to perfect his skill and immerse himself in memories of his late wife, Sainte-Colombe retreats to a cabin in his garden. Eventually, 17-year-old Marin Marais comes seeking knowledge from the master. However, after a brief period, Sainte-Colombe deems Marais unfit for instruction and sends him away. This greatly saddens Madeleine, who has developed feelings for Marais. Despite her father’s refusal, she shares her own knowledge with him and allows him to secretly listen to her father’s playing. Eventually, Marais is hired as a court musician.