Les Visiteurs du Soir
Director: Marcel Carné
Actors: Arletty, Marie Déa, Fernand Ledoux
PlotIn medieval France, two mysterious minstrels, Gilles and Dominique, arrive at a castle just as a wedding is about to take place between the lovelorn Anne and the nobleman Renaud. Unknown to the castle's inhabitants, Gilles and Dominique are emissaries of the Devil, sent to disrupt the upcoming nuptials and sow chaos. Gilles, using his charisma and musical skills, seduces Anne, causing her to doubt her impending marriage, while Dominique sets her sights on Baron Hugues, Anne's father, creating further discord. The castle inhabitants find themselves enchanted yet troubled by these newcomers, who seem to hold an unsettling power over their emotions.
As the minstrels weave their web of temptation and deceit, tension builds in the castle, bringing out hidden desires and long-buried secrets among its residents. The Devil, lurking in the background, orchestrates the unfolding drama, delighting in the chaos his servants create. Each character faces inner turmoil, wrestling with their moral integrity and the seductive lure of the minstrels. The once jubilant atmosphere of the wedding is overshadowed by suspicion, passion, and treachery. The story deepens as alliances shift and the true intentions of the visitors come to light, leading the characters to confront their darkest fears and desires.
Writers: Jacques Prévert, Pierre Laroche
Release Date: 29 Aug 1947
Runtime: 115 min
Rating: Not Rated
Country: France
Language: French
Home Video Reviews
Marcel Carne's 'Les Visiteurs du Soir' is an elegant, beautifully cruel film with strong video and solid audio; Criterion's presentation is excellent and highly recommended.
Read our review of Les Visiteurs du Soir Blu-ray The Devil's Envoys to find out more