In 19th century, a disillusioned priest helps a young boy drifter who's a chess wunderkind to move on up in life and social structures using his talent. Years later, he's a success, but game of life and love has higher stakes than chess.
Acting
Pierre Richard's shambling priest energy is unmatched.
Production
Lavish costumes that scream 'we spent the entire budget here.'
Direction
Hanchar's eccentric vision: equal parts charming and baffling.
Director
Yves Hanchar
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This was Yves Hanchar's second feature after 1989's 'Life Is a Long Quiet River,' and his last—he vanished from cinema afterward like a bishop in fog.
The film bombed so hard in France that it's become a cult curio for Deneuve completists and 'what were they thinking' enthusiasts.
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