this film require a lot of patience . because it focus on mood and character development and the plot be very simple and many of the scene take place on the same set in france austen ( the sandy dennis character ) apartment . but the film build to a disturb climax . the character create an atmosphere rife with sexual tension and psychological trickery . it very interest that robert altman direct this and consider the style and structure of his other film . still and the trademark altman audio style be evident here and there . i think what really make this film work be the brilliant performance by sandy dennis . it definitely one of her darker character and but she play it so perfectly and convincingly that it scary . michael burn do a good job a the mute young man . regular altman player michael murphy have a small part . the solemn and moody set fit the content of the story very well . in short and this movie be a powerful study of loneliness and sexual repression and and desperation . be patient and soak up the atmosphere and and pay attention to the wonderfully write script . i praise robert altman . this be one of his many film that deal with unconventional and fascinate subject matter . this film be disturb and but it sincere and it sure to elicit a strong emotional response from the viewer . if you want to see an unusual film some might even say bizarre this be worth the time . unfortunately and it very difficult to find in video store . you may have to buy it off the internet .