Just a movie by Alain René. Following step by step the filmography of Alain Rene, I come to the conclusion that this is the first weak work of the master.
The plot directs us to a strange medieval castle, which is actually converted into a boarding house. Visitors take courses that enhance their sense of self. They are immersed in childhood.
In my opinion, the subsequent development of intrigue in this film is not just undiscovered – it just failed. Quite good actors, to whom I include Vittorio Gassman and Fanny Ardan, act out the farcical production expected from René, which turns into a grotesque.
This picture reminded me of Agnès Varda’s Creation. However, not perfect "Creations" on the background of "Life is a novel" look like a real masterpiece.
In the end: Stylistically, Alain Rene decided to return to Providence, but the insufficiently developed script and the confused ending did not help me assess the director's plan. One of the weakest films of Alain Rene
4 out of 10