Chances are you already know the story of Cyrano de Bergerac: Edmond Rostand’s 1897 play that became one of theatre’s most tragic love stories. Even if you haven’t read the original, you’ve likely encountered its many adaptations—such as the modernized 1997 film Roxanne starring Steve Martin.
The film Cyrano follows a soldier and gifted wordsmith who reunites with his childhood love, Roxanne. Cyrano adores her from afar but believes his physical differences will prevent him from making her happy, even though she admires his intelligence. When he finally prepares to confess his love, Roxanne reveals she’s fallen for a young soldier named Christian and asks Cyrano to protect and guide him. Despite the conflict this creates, Cyrano accepts her request and forms an unexpected bond with Christian.
We won’t spoil the plot—if you know Cyrano, you know where it leads—but that familiarity is part of what made this adaptation so surprising. Even knowing the outcome, the film’s execution made the journey to its heartbreaking conclusion a deeply rewarding experience.
This version stays largely faithful to the original setting, but it updates Cyrano’s defining difference: with Peter Dinklage in the role, the film emphasizes his stature rather than the exaggerated nose used in many past adaptations. The period production values are stunning—lavish sets, meticulously designed costumes, and evocative lighting combine to create a visual feast that brings the centuries-old story vividly to life.
The film also includes several musical numbers—an element that may catch viewers off guard at first. While a few sequences slightly shift the pacing, the songs enrich the narrative and are delivered with care and emotion. This Cyrano is a familiar tale presented in a fresh and affecting way, one that benefits greatly from theatrical viewing.
Cyrano opens in theaters on December 31st. Although the story itself is well known, this film is worth seeing on the big screen: it provides an unexpectedly powerful emotional experience. With other musicals playing concurrently in theaters, this release deserves attention on its own merits rather than being overlooked.
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About Cyrano:
Directed by Joe Wright, Cyrano reimagines a timeless tale with a lush blend of music, romance, and visual beauty. Peter Dinklage’s Cyrano is brilliant with words and formidable in battle, but he believes his appearance makes him unworthy of love. Roxanne, portrayed by Haley Bennett, radiates warmth and devotion, while Kelvin Harrison Jr. plays Christian, the young man who captures her heart at first sight. The film explores love, sacrifice, and the power of language with grace and emotional depth.