Summary
Drama starring Niels Arestrup and Lorànt Deutsch. The already strained relationship between French vintner Paul de Marseul and his son is pushed to the limit when Paul entrusts the future of his business to someone outside of the family.
Drama starring Niels Arestrup and Lorànt Deutsch. The already strained relationship between French vintner Paul de Marseul and his son is pushed to the limit when Paul entrusts the future of his business to someone outside of the family.
This gripping study of dynastic continuity, class envy and fiscal pragmatism is played to perfection by a superior ensemble. Niels Arestrup plays the vineyard owner who, dismayed at the prospect of losing right-hand man Patrick Chesnais, decides to overlook plodding heir Lorànt Deutsch and groom Chesnais's high-flying son (Nicolas Bridet) to be his successor. Family secrets are revealed as Deutsch strives to retain his inheritance. However, while Arestrup and Bridet enjoy a lavish bonding session in Paris, the ailing Chesnais vows to maintain the status quo. The script by director Gilles Legrand and novelist Delphine de Vigan has its ponderous patches and events increasingly teeter on the edge of melodrama. But the performances are entirely rooted in the sunlit Saint-Emilion landscape that cinematographer Yves Angelo contrasts so atmospherically with the cool, dark cellars at the chateau.
role | name |
---|---|
Paul de Marseul | Niels Arestrup |
Martin de Marseul | Lorant Deutsch |
François Amelot | Patrick Chesnais |
Alice | Anne Marivan |
Philippe Amelot | Nicolas Bridet |
Madeleine Amelot | Valérie Mairesse |
role | name |
---|---|
Director | Gilles Legrand |