Virgil Oldman is a world renowned antiques expert and auctioneer. An eccentric genius, he leads a solitary life, going to extreme lengths to keep his distance from the messiness of human relationships. When appointed by the beautiful but emotionally damaged Claire to oversee the valuation and sale of her family’s priceless art collection, Virgil allows himself to form an attachment to her – and soon he is engulfed by a passion which will rock his bland existence to the core.
Acting
Geoffrey Rush builds a fortress of tics then crumbles magnificently.
Cinematography
Every frame looks like a painting he would covet.
Direction
Tornatore turns a simple con into operatic tragedy.
Director
Giuseppe Tornatore
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The film's Italian title 'La migliore offerta' translates to 'The Best Offer' but also suggests 'the highest bid'—fitting for a story where everyone auctions their integrity.
The mechanical woman automaton was created by real Swiss automaton makers; Tornatore insisted on functional mechanisms rather than CGI.
No ratings yet
Sign in to join the discussion — comments are spoiler-gated to your watch progress.
Discussion starters
IT
