France, 16th century. En route to a fair in a neighboring village, Michael Kohlhaas (Mads Mikkelsen), a prosperous merchant of Cévennes horses, is forced by a baronet to leave two of his steeds behind in order to pay his passage. He protests, to no avail, and is told he will be able to retrieve the animals on his way back. When Kohlhaas returns, he finds that his beautiful horses are worn down, cut up and bruised. He demands they be restored to their previous good health, but is mocked and dismissed.
Kohlhaas attempts to bring the matter to court, but his complaint is rejected. Kohlhaas sends his wife Judith to bring the matter before the Princess of Angoulême, but the consequences are even worse. Kohlhaas sparks a revolt and declares war on the authorities who violated his rights.
Director: | Arnaud des Pallières |
Studio: | EyeSteelFilm |
Producer(s): | Serge Lalou |
Cast: | Mads Mikkelsen, Bruno Ganz, Denis Lavant, Mélusine Mayance, David Kross, Delphine Chuillot, Sergi Lopez, Amira Casar, David Bennent, Paul Bartel, Roxane Duran, Swann Arlaud, Jacques Nolot |
Writer(s): | Christelle Berthevas, Arnaud des Pallières, Heinrich von Kleist |