The Proprietor
The Proprietor

Movie spotlight

The Proprietor

1996
Movie
113 min
English

An expatriated French novelist returns to Paris when she learns that her childhood home is being placed on the auction block.

Insights

IMDb6.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes60%
Director: Ismail MerchantGenres: Drama, Mystery

Plot Summary

A mysterious French woman, Mrs. Shanti, arrives in a small Irish village in 1976, claiming to be the sole heir to the local estate. She seeks to reclaim her family's ancestral home, which was confiscated during World War II. As she delves into the property's past and its current inhabitants, she uncovers secrets and prejudices that challenge her understanding of her heritage and her right to the land.

Critical Reception

The Proprietor received mixed to positive reviews, with many critics praising Jeanne Moreau's central performance and the film's atmospheric setting. However, some found the plot to be somewhat convoluted and slow-paced, leading to a less impactful narrative.

What Reviewers Say

  • Jeanne Moreau delivers a captivating performance as the enigmatic protagonist.

  • The film effectively captures a sense of mystery and historical tension.

  • Some viewers found the pacing too deliberate, detracting from the narrative's momentum.

Google audience: Audience reception for The Proprietor is not widely documented through specific Google user reviews. However, general sentiment suggests appreciation for the mature storytelling and Jeanne Moreau's powerful acting, while some found the plot to be less engaging.

Awards & Accolades

None notable.

Fun Fact

The film was directed by Ismail Merchant, of the renowned Merchant Ivory Productions, though this film was not produced under their banner.

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