When aspiring playwright Paul Javal (Michel Piccoli) is called in as script doctor on a film of 'The Odyssey', he is caught between a director (Fritz Lang) who wants to capture the reality of Homer's world, and crass producer Prokosch (Jack Palance) who just wants more mermaids. As his artistic integrity gradually succumbs to the power of Prokosch's cheque book, his wife Camille (Bardot) regards him with increasing contempt.
Introduction By Colin MacCabe
Once Upon A Time... Contempt
Contempt... Tenderly
The Dinosaur And The Baby
Conversation With Fritz Lang
Trailer
Booklet: Analysis by Ginette Vincendeau, Professor of Film Studies at King's College London and acclaimed author