Welcome, dear readers, to another edition of Sunday Morning Movie! In today’s feature, we delve into the intriguing story of an alchemist and physician whose quest to heal the sick puts him at odds with the Church in L’oeuvre Au Noir:
Next week, we’ll explore the reflective journey presented in Into Great Silence:
Here are some reviews of L’oeuvre Au Noir:
Letterboxd shares:
It’s always fascinating to discover these little-known films that immerse you in fully developed worlds. Despite its 16th-century setting, everything feels so natural and effortless. A mesmerizing experience, though I wished it explored its oddities, paranoia, and despair even more—reminded me a lot of Żuławski’s Diabeł.
Additionally, another perspective states:
André Delvaux’s adaptation of Marguerite Yourcenar’s novel, L’Œuvre au noir, initially seems straightforward in its plot, lacking his usual ellipses and elisions. However, it glosses over significant themes like freemasonry, banking, and Catholicism, ultimately missing the larger theme of individuation. For Delvaux, Zénon Ligre, the heretical healer, symbolizes personal freedom in the face of religious oppression and political motives. While alchemy symbolizes the path to self-actualization, its presentation is subdued and lacks the depth it deserves. The film concludes with Zénon taking his life, a moment that feels as routine as navigating the cobblestone streets of Bruges, raising questions about the value of human existence.
My thoughts:
The film transported me back to the Renaissance, effectively capturing the essence of daily life in that era. Gian Maria Volonté, known for his roles as a bandit leader in both A Fist Full of Dollars and For a Few Dollars More, convincingly portrays Zénon Ligre, the unconventional doctor and alchemist facing Church persecution. While the film may not be a masterpiece, it’s worth viewing once for its intriguing portrayal.
Director: André Delvaux
Writers: André Delvaux, Marguerite Yourcenar (novel)
Notable Actor: Gian Maria Volonté
Plot (Spoilers!):
Zénon Ligre (Volonté) returns to Bruges after wandering across 16th-century Europe. As a compassionate healer who offers his services for free and an inquisitive alchemist, he soon attracts the Church’s ire. Disguised and under an assumed name, he reconnects with an old friend and a Church official but faces mounting obstacles as his unconventional practices garner both followers and adversaries.
Ultimately, his past catches up with him, leading to his arrest by the Church. Faced with execution, he chooses to take his own life instead.
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Bonus Content:
Discover why Anthony Burgess regrets writing A Clockwork Orange! | Celebs Up Close
Russell Harty interviews a variety of fascinating guests, captivating audiences with engaging conversations and performances.
And enjoy this performance by Andy Graham – Nebula (Electric Stringed Didgeridoo) 2016:
