Overview

In 1866, a young Muscovite named Alexei Ivanovitch arrives in Baden Baden, then the gambling capital of Austria, and is soon engaged by General Zagorianski to look after his children. Alexei discovers that his employer is a compulsive gambler who has been almost ruined by his addiction. The only money the General has is provided by the Marquis de Grieux, an adventurer who intends to marry Zagorianski’s sister, Pauline. In doing so, de Grieux hopes to profit from the vast inheritance that will come the General’s way from his Aunt Antonina, who is presently very ill. Alexei is appalled by this society which lives only for money. He loves Pauline and wants to take her to a healthier place, but when she refuses to marry him, he begins to gamble at the casino…

Top Cast

Gérard Philipe

Alexei Ivanovitch

Liselotte Pulver

Pauline Zagorianski

Françoise Rosay

Aunt Antonia

Jean Danet

Marquis des Grieux

Jean-Max

Director of the bank

Nadine Alari

Blanche de Cominges

Sacha Pitoëff

Afpley

Suzanne Dantès

Mrs. de Cominges

Paul Esser

Julien Carette

Bagdovitch

Bernard Blier

General Zagoriensky

Georges Bever

Butler at the ball