Joan of Arc is once again the muse of Gen-Z and its pop culture

If Sacrifice, the upcoming thriller by Romain Gavras, which boldly draws on the story and character of Joan of Arc, already boasted an impressive cast led by Chris Evans, Anya Taylor-Joy, Salma Hayek Pinault, and Sam Richardson, it seems that wasn’t enough for the director. According to Deadline, the film's roster has just welcomed even more talent, including Yung Lean, Charli XCX, Jeremy O. Harris, Vincent Cassel, John Malkovich, Ambika Mod, Jade Croot, and Miriam Silverman. Although this young and diverse cast is noteworthy, what truly stands out is that Joan of Arc remains a muse for today’s popular culture. 

The film, co-written by Gavras and Succession writer Will Arbery, follows Joan (Joan of Arc, played by Taylor-Joy) on a quest to save the world from an evil volcanic spirit, aided by her mystical team. Together, they disrupt a charity gala and take three hostages: Mike Tyler (Evans), a faded movie star, Bracken (Cassel), the world’s richest man, and Katie (Mod), a young girl with a tragic fate. This trio becomes intertwined with Joan’s mission to protect humanity, a journey that requires a sacrifice – thus lending the film its title. In addition to the previously mentioned actors, other Gen-Z idols will also take part in the adventure. Yung Lean will make his film debut, while Charli XCX has added several film and TV roles to her career, including upcoming projects like 100 Nights of Hero, Overcompensating, and Faces of Death. 

This major production is likely to attract numerous Gen-Z moviegoers, eager to support their favorite pop star’s projects, while also offering them a glimpse into the story of Joan of Arc and her heroism, whether portrayed fictionally or not. A heroine who continues to gain popularity, Joan of Arc has long been a muse for countless artists. Earlier this month, Angèle appeared on the cover of PHOTO Magazine, clad in chain mail, in an unmistakably inspired cosplay with a bob haircut that had already gone viral online. Before her, artist Chappell Roan revived the medieval weird core trend in fashion. Hollywood stars like Chloe Sevigny and Zendaya have also brought armor to the red carpet, lending it a surprising fashion twist. In film, Australian director and screenwriter Baz Luhrmann recently announced plans to create a biopic on the young heroine's tragic life. As for Sacrifice, currently filming in Greece, it offers an excellent opportunity to learn more about this pioneering feminist warrior.