Jefferson in Paris is a historical drama film, directed by James Ivory and released on March 31, 1995. The film centers around Thomas Jefferson (Nick Nolte), the then ambassador in Versailles, before the French Revolution. It is the wish of French liberals for Thomas Jefferson to lead them away from the demoralization caused by Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI and introduce democracy into France. Being that it is his first time abroad, Jefferson hopes to learn from the science and liberal arts programs offered in France. While in Paris, Jefferson meets Maria Cosway (Greta Scacchi), an Anglo-Italian painter and musician. Although his wife had passed away, he cannot allow himself to commit to Maria, due to the memory of his late wife and the two daughters they had together. He also finds himself attracted to Sally Hemmings (Thandie Newton), the half-sister of his late wife and the nurse of his youngest daughter Polly.moreless