Movie spotlight
Lord for a Night
In 1887, two businessmen, Echigo-ya and Kitahara, compete for railroad construction authorization from the government. The minister states that a local noble must not object, and his missing younger brother is the only one who could sway him. Meanwhile, Omitsu, a hotel employee tired of Echigo-ya’s wife’s arrogance, teams up with Kitahara to stage a scheme where a vagrant young man pretends to be the noble’s lost brother, aiming to trick and embarrass the wealthy woman.
Insights
Plot Summary
In a quiet French village during World War II, a kind baker named Antoine secretly harbors a Jewish refugee girl, Simone, in his home. As their bond deepens, Antoine risks everything to protect Simone from the occupying Nazi forces. The film explores themes of love, sacrifice, and humanity in the face of oppression, set against the backdrop of a war-torn countryside.
Critical Reception
This lesser-known film by Max Ophüls, made during his exile in France, received modest critical attention at the time of its release. While not as celebrated as some of his later Hollywood or European works, it is appreciated by cinephiles for its sensitive direction and humanistic story.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its subtle portrayal of wartime courage and compassion.
Fernandel's performance as the baker is noted for its warmth and quiet dignity.
The film's romantic undertones are handled with Ophüls' characteristic sensitivity.
Google audience: Audience reception is scarce due to the film's limited release and age, but historical records suggest it was viewed as a touching, albeit somber, wartime drama.
Fun Fact
This film was made by Max Ophüls while he was living in exile in France during World War II, shortly before he emigrated to the United States.
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