The movie seemed to have spend too much time in the non-essentials. That includes the festivities for the King, which were visually very appealing, but doesn't add too much to the film. Also, Vatel was seen most of the time running around in preparing for the parties, but not actually doing much. After all those scenes there is not much room left for the story to develop and unfold.
Much of what's going on occurs during all those festivities, but they were mostly slight gestures. Maybe it is because that is what those aristocrats do all day, but they don't have to let it actually occupy most of the movie.
The film did convey the contrast the lives of aristocrats and the merely normal people. But the differences were never delved on, instead, they would go back to the fun, games and laughter of the noblemen.
Only toward the end, was there scenes where there was scenes with any drama, but it comes a little too late. It was 7 meals and 5 festivities into the film by then.
Much of what's going on occurs during all those festivities, but they were mostly slight gestures. Maybe it is because that is what those aristocrats do all day, but they don't have to let it actually occupy most of the movie.
The film did convey the contrast the lives of aristocrats and the merely normal people. But the differences were never delved on, instead, they would go back to the fun, games and laughter of the noblemen.
Only toward the end, was there scenes where there was scenes with any drama, but it comes a little too late. It was 7 meals and 5 festivities into the film by then.