Trailer for Four Nights of a Dreamer: Robert Bresson’s Classic Undergoes 4K Restoration and Gains Theatrical Release

      One of the most fulfilling filmographies I explored was the complete set of thirteen features by the esteemed Robert Bresson. Recently, one of his most exceptional films, long inaccessible in a quality format, has been excellently restored in 4K. The newly restored version of Robert Bresson’s Four Nights of a Dreamer is set to screen in theaters starting September 5 at Film Forum, thanks to Janus Films. In advance of its release, a new trailer and poster have been unveiled.

      Here’s the synopsis: “The seldom-seen Four Nights of a Dreamer is Robert Bresson’s overlooked masterpiece, a stark yet haunting tribute to romantic idealism and the unpredictability of love. Based on Fyodor Dostoevsky’s 'White Nights,' Four Nights centers on Jacques (Guillaume des Forêts), a solitary artist wandering through bohemian Paris in search of the girl of his dreams. One night, he rescues a beautiful young woman, Marthe, who is about to drown in the Seine out of despair over her rejection by an avoidant lover (Maurice Monnoyer). Jacques compassionately tries to bring Marthe back together with her partner, but his feelings for her quickly develop beyond friendship, and his involvement in her emotional turmoil becomes increasingly self-serving. Four Nights of a Dreamer has been described as the French master’s “loveliest” piece: with his trademark minimalism, Bresson captures the enchanting beauty of nocturnal Paris, enveloping his characters in limitless possibilities—subtly illustrating the wonder of unexpected connections and the enigma of fate.”

      The restoration was executed by mk2 Films, overseen by Mylène Bresson, at Éclair Classics (Paris) and L.E. Diapason, with assistance from the Centre national du cinéma et de l’image animée (CNC).

      Watch the trailer below.