Set during a retreat of Christian Democrat politicians who practice spiritual exercises together, it is an allegory of corrupted power. Disturbing, claustrophobic settings are the background to a series of mysterious crimes.

Gian Maria Volonté
as M.

Marcello Mastroianni
as Don Gaetano

Mariangela Melato
as Giacinta

Ciccio Ingrassia
as Voltrano

Franco Citti
as M.'s Driver

Cesare Gelli
as Arras

Tino Scotti
as Hotel Zafer Cook

Adriano Amidei Migliano
as Minister Capra Profiri

Giancarlo Badessi
as Ventre

Mario Bartolomei
as Franco Lombo