This fascinating drama that evokes so many cinema references along the way is the concoction of screenwriter Claude Klotz and director Patrice Leconte. Hallyday as a mysterious stranger named Milan arrives in town with a mission, his intention to rob a bank. The streets are deserted, but he is befriended by a local, Manesquier, a retired teacher of poetry who lives alone and is facing heart surgery. These two characters are unlikely types to form a friendship, but after Manesquier gives Milan shelter in his home, an old chateau, a bond develops between them.

Each person has something to teach the other, and the exchanges between them endow the film with charm and humor, as well as build suspense about what is in store for both. Should Milan forget about the bank mission that he and his cohorts are planning? Will Manesquier survive the heart surgery? How are their lives changed by this very odd encounter?

Hallyday, looking grizzled and marked by the criminal life he has led, is terrifically expressive in his laid-back demeanor. Rochefort, looking wise and endlessly fascinated by his guest, also gives a marvelous performance. Leconte keeps everything low-key in his tribute to the films that obviously have intrigued him.