Michael Kohlhaas

French writer and director Arnaud des Pallières adapts the classic novella by Heinrich von Kleist by setting it in France in the 16th century. When a horse dealer takes a case of abuse to the authorities, he's refused justice which forces him to rise against them which spreads like wild fire throughout the country when others join him in his fight for justice. The influential novel by Kleist which inspired the likes of Franz Kafka, gets a powerful film which Pallières brings smashing effect to the screen. Mads Mikkelsen stars with another terrific performance that proves what a great character actor he's. The supporting cast includes Bruno Ganz, Denis Lavant, David Kross, Roxane Duran, David Bennent and Sergi López. 1001 Films' coverage of French Cinema Now.