Year 1983. An architectural competition is announced for a new landmark in Paris to become the symbol of its modern district, La Défense. Major international architectural firms take part in the competition and, surprisingly, an unknown architecture teacher, Johan Otto von Spreckelsen, wins with his project La Grande Arche. Up to this point, this 50-year-old Dane has built only four buildings: his home and three small chapels, and has devoted his life primarily to teaching and to finding a balance between space, light and the human soul. His Great Arch is simple, geometrically pure, inspired by the idea of a gateway to heaven. The film follows Otto as he deals with the pressures of politicians, officials and the media, and his own doubts about whether it is possible to remain true to a spiritual vision in the midst of a world of compromise. The building that was supposed to be a symbol of harmony gradually turns into a mirror of his inner struggle.
Czech subtitles
L'Inconnu de la Grande Arche
Drama / Historical / Biographical
France / Denmark, 2025, 105 min
Directed by Stéphane Demoustier
Programme subject to change.
