The Fire Within (1963)

7.8Not Rated108 minDirector: Louis Malle

1963 French tragedy film by Louis Malle

The Fire Within (French: Le Feu follet, lit. 'will-o'-the-wisp', pronounced [lə fɔlɛ]) is a 1963 French tragedy film written and directed by Louis Malle. It is based on the 1931 novel Will O' the Wisp by Pierre Drieu La Rochelle, which was inspired by the life of poet Jacques Rigaut. The film stars Maurice Ronet and features Léna Skerla, Jean-Paul Moulinot, Bernard Tiphaine, Bernard Noël, Jeanne Moreau (who had previously worked with Ronet and Malle in Elevator to the Gallows), Jacques Sereys, and Alexandra Stewart in supporting roles. The score consists of music composed by Erik Satie and performed by pianist Claude Helffer.

The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the 24th Venice International Film Festival.

Plot summary adapted from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.

FAQ

What is The Fire Within about?
The Fire Within (1963) — Alain Leroy is having a course of treatment in a private hospital because of his problem with alcohol. Although he is constantly distressed, he leaves the hospital and tries to meet good old days' friends. None of them will be helpful, increasing Alain's distress.
Is The Fire Within based on a true story?
See the production background and source material details on the official Wikipedia article.
Is The Fire Within scary?
Content rating: Not Rated. See the reviews tab for parental guidance and tone notes.