The Taking of Power by Louis XIV

This docudrama by Roberto Rossellini focuses on French king Louis XIV (Jean-Marie Patte). When the powerful de facto leader, Cardinal Mazarin (Silvagni), dies, youthful Louis seizes control of the country. Before long, the flamboyant ruler clashes with indulgent nobleman Nicolas Fouquet (Pierre Barrat) and lays out his plan to consolidate his power. Working closely with finance minister Jean-Baptiste Colbert (Raymond Jourdan), Louis XIV establishes a reign that continues for decades. …