Collated by Bresson from three contemporary court transcripts, the tense exchanges between Joan and her inquisitors provide a fascinating insight into the true nature of her primal crimes.

Bresson's treatment of the Trial of Joan is characteristically ascetic; but it is also quintessential history, unique and timeless, graced with a master's touch.

Using non-actors, there are no false dramatics. This unveils another side of the oft-filmed tale, and the state and church politics of that century.

As much as I love Bresson's works, I'm rarely caught up in the sweep of his drama. The drama comes for me only at the conclusion - and then lingers for days after.