A middle-aged man meets a young woman who is waiting on a canal bridge for her lover's return.

'White Nights' showcases exceptional black and white cinematography with masterful lighting and shadows, creating a dreamlike, melancholic atmosphere that elevates Visconti's romantic adaptation. Mastroianni and Schell deliver captivating performances in this faithful Dostoevsky interpretation. However, opinions sharply divide on engagement, with some finding it boring or emotionally remote. The writing receives mixed reactions for its slight plot, while artificial studio sets draw criticism despite their atmospheric contribution. The romance resonates strongly, though some find its rapid development unrealistic.