Cyrano de Bergerac By: Edmond Rostand

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Steve Martin transformed Edmond Rostand's masterpiece into Roxanne, one of the most beloved romantic comedies of the 1980s—a performance that proved Martin wasn't just a wild and crazy guy, but a deeply romantic leading man with the heart to make audiences swoon.

Before Steve Martin stood under that moonlit window delivering some of cinema's most beautiful love letters, before he made us laugh and cry in equal measure with his modern adaptation, there was Cyrano de Bergerac—the original story that gave Martin the foundation for his most heartfelt, critically acclaimed performance. Martin's Roxanne captured the soul of Rostand's hero: the brilliant wordsmith, the loyal friend, the man whose wit and poetry could move hearts, held back only by his own insecurities. Now experience the classic French play that inspired Steve Martin's transformation from comedian to romantic icon, in all its swashbuckling, heart-wrenching, poetry-filled glory.

Cyrano has everything: the razor-sharp wit that made Steve Martin perfect for the role, the poetic soul that creates the most beautiful declarations of love ever written, and the fierce warrior spirit that makes him a hero. But he believes his appearance—that famous nose—makes him unworthy of the woman he adores, Roxane. So he becomes the voice behind another man's face, writing love letters so exquisite they could make anyone fall in love. It's The Notebook meets Shakespeare in Love meets swashbuckling adventure—romantic drama at its absolute peak.

Rostand crafted a story that has everything Hollywood loves: sword fights worthy of The Princess Bride, romantic speeches that rival When Harry Met Sally, loyal friendship like Good Will Hunting, and a bittersweet love story that hits as hard as any modern tearjerker. The balcony scene alone—where Cyrano feeds words to his rival in the shadows—is pure cinematic gold that's been referenced and recreated in countless films.

There's a reason Steve Martin chose this story. There's a reason it's been adapted for stage and screen for over a century. Cyrano de Bergerac is the ultimate story about the power of words, the pain of unrequited love, and the question that haunts us all: what if the person we love fell for our mind and heart, but never knew it was us? It's romantic comedy meets tragic drama, with action sequences and verbal sparring so sharp you can feel every thrust and parry.

If Roxanne made you believe in the power of beautiful words, if you've ever wished modern movies had more poetry and passion, this audiobook delivers the original in all its glory. Rostand's verse is legendary—witty, moving, quotable, and absolutely electric. This is the kind of sophisticated, emotionally intelligent storytelling that made Steve Martin fight to bring it to modern audiences.

Set in 17th century France with dueling musketeers, but speaking to universal truths about love, insecurity, friendship, and the masks we wear. It's got the theatrical flair of Moulin Rouge!, the emotional depth of prestige Oscar dramas, and dialogue so brilliant it makes Aaron Sorkin look like he's taking notes.

Press play and fall in love with words all over again.