This film screened on Saturday 27th July 2019.

Bresson’s rendering of Arthurian legend is, despite the romantic potential of the material, a typically spare and unflinching look at the dichotomy between the individual’s best and worst behaviours. As the Knights of the Round Table return to Camelot following the failure of their quest for the Holy Grail, they are presented as bitter and disappointed rather than noble or heroic. The reunion of Queen Guinevere (Laura Duke Condominas) and her lover Sir Lancelot (Luc Simon) proves disappointing when he reveals he has sworn an oath to end their adulterous affair, believing his recent failure to be God’s punishment for his misdeeds. However, the rumours regarding the two spread by Mordred (Patrick Bernhard) ultimately lead to a more earthly form of retribution.

Screening as part of a full Robert Bresson retrospective in July 2019. A multi-film pass, 5 films for €45, is available directly from the IFI Box Office.

The Robert Bresson retrospective is presented with the support of the French Embassy in Ireland and Institut Français.