This masterfully conceived parable focuses on distorted mechanisms of behaviour that are established as normative. Bizarre characters and deformed relationships are here portrayed with detachment, moreover, as if this were something natural and rather mundane. A menacingly gracious host invites to his table only guests who are obedient and loyal, while even the slightest expression of disagreement is punished. At the time of production this stylised situation was taken as a virulent attack on the regime, something understood by both the viewers and the censors, who hobbled the film in a variety of ways. It likely only added to the legend of this absurd parable, a work that nevertheless remains timeless in its rendering of the choices people make when brought face to face with power.

World premiere of the digitally restored version.