
Movie spotlight
Incident at Vichy
Adapted from Arthur Miller's play, film focuses on a group of Frenchmen who are detained at Vichy, the capital of France while under Nazi occupation, and "investigated" under suspicion of secretly being Jewish.
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Plot Summary
Arthur Miller's adaptation of his own 1964 play, 'Incident at Vichy' is a searing examination of complicity and moral responsibility during the Holocaust. The teleplay follows a group of men detained in a Vichy France waiting room, ostensibly for a minor offense, but who gradually realize they are being rounded up due to their Jewish heritage. The play unfolds as a series of dialogues and character studies, revealing the varied reactions to impending persecution, from denial and self-preservation to quiet defiance.
Critical Reception
The television adaptation of 'Incident at Vichy' was critically lauded for its powerful and unflinching portrayal of a dark historical period. While specific aggregate scores from 1973 are difficult to pinpoint, contemporary reviews praised Arthur Miller's adaptation and the strong performances from the ensemble cast, particularly Hal Linden. It was recognized for its intellectual rigor and its ability to provoke thought on themes of prejudice and the human condition.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its intellectual depth and provocative themes.
Lauded Arthur Miller's adaptation and the compelling performances.
Recognized for its unflinching look at complicity during the Holocaust.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user ratings for this 1973 television film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Arthur Miller adapted 'Incident at Vichy' for television himself, bringing his own stage play to a new medium with the same critical intent.
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