The Vertical Smile

Overview

A kaleidoscope of images from history populate this skillfully animated French feature. The story concerns a history professor whose ideas about human history cause him distress. Amid a flurry of newsreel-type images, Joan of Arc's trial is shown. Another theme which emerges is of two ages (in the far past and far future) in which naked humans fight one another with animalistic aggression.

Directed by Robert Lapoujade

Top cast

Françoise Brion

Lennie

François Perrot

Relde

Henri Serre

Tablo

Olivier Hussenot

Doux Donnie

Jean-Pierre Mocky

Franco, le prêtre borgne

André Chaumeau

Le voyeur

Natalie Perrey

Mère Jeanne des Anges

Georges Carmier

Cauchon

V

Violaine Doucy

Jeanne d'Arc

Vanina Michel

Léone

C

Catherine Stermann

La petite fille

Max Vialle

Général P.P.

Michel Charrel

L'agresseur

D

Didier Flamand

Le jeune prêtre

Bernard Jeantet

Details