The Fire Within (Le Feu Follet in French) is a 1963 French drama film directed by Louis Malle, based on the novel of the same name by Pierre Drieu La Rochelle. The film follows the story of Alain Leroy, a struggling writer and former alcoholic, who returns to Paris after spending time in a mental institution to try to reconnect with old friends and find a reason to live.
As Alain visits various acquaintances and old flames, he quickly realizes that he no longer fits into their lives and has become a stranger to them. His attempts to reach out to others are met with indifference and hostility, and he finds himself increasingly isolated and alone.
Haunted by memories of his past and consumed by his own melancholy, Alain becomes more and more convinced that suicide is the only solution. The film reaches its climax in a devastating scene in which Alain prepares to take his own life.
The Fire Within is a haunting and poignant portrait of a man struggling to find meaning and purpose in life. It is also a powerful commentary on the alienation and unease of post-World War II France. The film is praised for its beautiful cinematography, atmospheric score, and the haunting performance of lead actor Maurice Ronet.
