On July 16, the courtyard of the Institut Français in Madrid will host an open-air screening of the film “The Architect.” A captivating tale where artistic ambition clashes with the machinery of power. Claes Bang brings to life Johan Otto von Spreckelsen, an idealistic architect who, overnight, finds himself at the helm of the largest architectural project of his time. Between absolute vision and political compromises, the construction of The Architect becomes an epic that is as human as it is dizzying.
Before the screening, you can take advantage of the pleasant weather and enjoy the courtyard of the Institut’s Café, with its selection of savory and sweet treats, drinks, and cocktails to suit all tastes.
Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 10:00 p.m. Price: €6. Book Now
The Architect
- The new French government launches its biggest architecture competition. Coveted by major studios, the winner is, surprisingly, a complete unknown: Johan Otto von Spreckelsen, a Danish architecture professor who until then had only built his house and three small chapels. Suddenly, he finds himself in charge of a colossal project: the construction of the Grande Arche de la Défense in Paris. “Spreck” will soon discover that, to preserve his vision, he will have to confront the political game. Thus begins the true struggle between art and power.
From the producers of “The Big Top” and “Sentimental Value” comes the new feature film by Stéphane Demoustier, a filmmaker twice nominated for César Awards: Best Adapted Screenplay for “The Girl with the Bracelet” and Best Original Screenplay for “Borgo.” This new film, which had its world premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival (Un Certain Regard), marks the return to acting for the acclaimed filmmaker Xavier Dolan, in a story set in the world of 20th-century architecture.
Stéphane Demoustier
Stéphane Demoustier is a French film director, screenwriter, and producer. He began his career at the Ministry of Culture, in the architecture department, where he produced and directed documentaries, before deciding to leave his position to dedicate himself to filmmaking. Co-founder of the production company Année Zéro with his sister Jeanne Demoustier, he directed several short films before directing his first feature film, “Terre battue,” released in 2014. He has directed five feature films since then.