Moscow, 1957. After the death of Stalin, the heady atmosphere of the Thaw hangs over Soviet society – but vestiges of the dark past remain. French student Pierre, freshly arrived from Paris, throws himself into the world of intellectual and romantic adventure. Caught in a love triangle with his friend Valery and ballerina Kira, he must also unearth the truth about his family’s tragic connection to the USSR. Only the second film from acclaimed actor-director Smirnov in 40 years, A Frenchman is a heartfelt drama of classical poise and moral conviction, with crisp black-and-white photography and a talented cast that balances youth and experience.