Inspired by remarkable true events, the sharp and engrossing dramedy The Stolen Painting (aka Auction) follows a self-assured auctioneer whose professional and personal integrity is challenged by the discovery of a long-lost masterpiece.

Paris, present day. Brash 40-something André Masson (Alex Lutz), a hotshot modern art appraiser at prestigious high-end auction house Scottie’s, receives word that a painting by Egon Schiele may have been found in a young factory worker’s home in the Alsatian city of Mulhouse.

Though highly sceptical, André travels to view the canvas with his ex-partner Bettina (Léa Drucker) who is also an expert valuator, only to be convinced of its authenticity as a masterwork long assumed destroyed by Nazi officials during WWII. For André, the ramifications of this once-in-a-lifetime find for his career and for his contentious relationship with his less-than-reliable intern Aurore (Louise Chevillotte), will prove both unexpected and transformative.

Skilfully brought to life by an array of endearing and duplicitous characters, it is a thrilling exploration of the often-cynical world of art dealing and collecting, where the jaw-dropping prices aren’t always related to the rarity of the object or the desire of potential customers.

“Bonitzer evinces an appreciable warmth toward his creations that you feel even from the analytic distance he establishes.” ~Manohla Dargis, The New York Times

“Auction is good, underhanded fun, and even the loose ends that Bonitzer leaves hanging… and leave one uncertain about how this high-stakes poker game will play out.” ~Roger Moore, Movie Nation

“A clever modern-day morality tale mixing art, social class and big bucks.” ~Jordan Mintzer, The Hollywood Reporter