Synopsis

This masterpiece, entirely shot in black and white, counts to the greatest cineastic challenges ever. That is why the screen adaptation of László Krasznahorkais novel of the same title can be seen only seldom on the big screen. This is mainly due to the films runnig time of 450 minutes, which are filled with only 150 shots that can last up to 15 minutes. Both, the audience and the cinema operstors are streched to their limits, as one has to sacrafice much of what has become scarce nowadays – their time, and the other have to do without additional cash, as they are unable to show the film more than once in a day. The film’s plot is set in a bleak hungarian village, where its inhabitans, living under poorest conditions, daily fight against sadness, boredom and misery. If they could they would move away rather sooner than later. When rumours arise that Irimiás, who was presumed dead, has returned home, the whole village bursts with euphoria. However, the alleged saviour is in truth a police informer. Bela Tarrs minimalistic monument to conetemporary cinema slowly unfolds its full-blown effect upon its audience which is why the film is often counted among the best of all times. Despite the film’s depressing undertone, its morbid sense of humour certainly contributes to its popularity.