Zénon the Rebel

This documentary delves into the life of Zénon, a character central to Yourcenar’s renowned 1968 novel. Zénon is also featured in André Delvaux’s 1988 film adaptation, where he is portrayed by Gian Maria Volonté. The film examines Zénon’s roles as a philosopher, doctor, alchemist, and inventor from the Renaissance.

The narrative seeks to uncover what Zénon represents for modern audiences and how his character can illuminate the complexities of the Renaissance era as well as today’s uncertain times. With a runtime of 67 minutes, the film presents a thoughtful exploration of art and identity, making it a unique addition to the documentary genre.