Bartleby 1976
Maurice Ronet's atmospheric adaptation of Herman Melville's timeless short story, *Bartleby (1976)*, plunges viewers into the rigid world of 19th-century Manhattan's legal elite.
Director: Maurice Ronet
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bartleby (1976) about?
*Bartleby* follows a well-to-do lawyer in 19th-century New York who takes in a peculiar scrivener named Bartleby. When Bartleby begins methodically refusing to perform his duties with the chilling phrase "I would prefer not to," the lawyer's orderly life spirals into chaos. The story explores themes of resistance, isolation, and the crushing weight of societal expectations.
Who directed Bartleby?
Maurice Ronet directed *Bartleby (1976)*. Known for his work in French New Wave cinema, Ronet crafts a visually striking and thematically rich adaptation of Herman Melville's story.
Who stars in Bartleby?
The film stars Maxence Mailfort as the enigmatic Bartleby, Michael Lonsdale as the tormented lawyer, and Maurice Biraud, Dominique Zardi, and Jacques Fontanelle in supporting roles.
Is Bartleby (1976) worth watching?
*Bartleby* isn't a crowd-pleaser, but its stark, thought-provoking approach makes it a compelling watch for lovers of classic literature and psychological drama. The film's deliberate pacing and existential themes reward patient viewers, offering a uniquely unsettling experience rather than easy entertainment.
How long is Bartleby?
The runtime for *Bartleby (1976)* is 97 minutes.
About Bartleby (1976) — A Haunting Adaptation of Melville's Classic Tale
Maurice Ronet's atmospheric adaptation of Herman Melville's timeless short story, *Bartleby (1976)*, plunges viewers into the rigid world of 19th-century Manhattan's legal elite. The film follows the peculiar tale of a compassionate but increasingly unsettled lawyer whose quiet life unravels when he hires the enigmatic Bartleby as a scrivener. As the mysterious new employee's infamous phrase—"I would prefer not to"—echoes through the office, the narrative spirals into a meditation on isolation, futile rebellion against absurd bureaucracy, and the quiet desperation of defiance. With its stark black-and-white visuals and oppressive silence, the film crafts an eerie atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll.
Maxence Mailfort delivers a haunting portrayal of Bartleby's unsettling presence, while Michael Lonsdale shines as the tormented lawyer navigating the surreal power struggle. Ronet's direction masterfully strips away the story's ambiguity, transforming Melville's allegory into a chilling character study that questions the true cost of conformity. The result is a drama that feels both timeless and deeply unsettling—a must-watch for fans of existential literature and psychological cinema alike.