Quintet 1979
"One man against the world."
In the frozen wasteland of a future ice age, humanity clings to survival by indulging in a deadly obsession: the board game Quintet.
Director: Robert Altman
Cast
Paul Newman
Essex
Vittorio Gassman
Saint Christopher
Fernando Rey
Grigor
Bibi Andersson
Ambrosia
Brigitte Fossey
Vivia, Essex's Wife
Nina van Pallandt
Deuca
Craig Richard Nelson
Redstone
David Langton
Goldstar
Thomas Hill
Francha
Monique Mercure
Redstone's Mate
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Quintet (1979) about?
Set during a future ice age, Quintet follows a small group of survivors who play a deadly board game using human pieces. The rules are brutal, and only the winner survives, turning a game of strategy into a fight for existence.
Who directed Quintet?
Robert Altman directed Quintet, bringing his signature blend of psychological depth and atmospheric storytelling to this science-fiction thriller.
Who stars in Quintet?
The film stars Paul Newman, Vittorio Gassman, Fernando Rey, Bibi Andersson, and Brigitte Fossey in a haunting ensemble cast.
Is Quintet (1979) worth watching?
Quintet is a fascinating but divisive film—Altman's icy visuals and thought-provoking themes make it a standout in sci-fi, though its slow pace may not appeal to all viewers. A cult classic with a unique vision.
How long is Quintet?
Quintet runs for 118 minutes, a brisk runtime for its dense storytelling and stark atmosphere.
🎥 Trailer
About Quintet (1979) — Robert Altman's Chilling Ice Age Sci-Fi Thriller
In the frozen wasteland of a future ice age, humanity clings to survival by indulging in a deadly obsession: the board game Quintet. Directed by visionary filmmaker Robert Altman, this chilling science-fiction thriller reimagines fate as a high-stakes contest where players manipulate living pieces—each move a gambit for life itself. Paul Newman leads the ensemble cast in this haunting exploration of desperation, strategy, and the brutal rules of survival.
With its stark, atmospheric tone and themes of existential struggle, Quintet (1979) delivers a bleak yet mesmerizing experience, where the thrill of the game masks a merciless battle for dominance. Altman's signature style blends psychological depth with apocalyptic dread, making this a cult favorite among fans of cerebral sci-fi. Whether you're drawn to its enigmatic premise or its stark visual storytelling, Quintet lingers long after the final move.
