Well, Melville has done it again (or did it again 34 years ago when this movie came out). He has created an excellent cat and mouse story. Another addition to his incomparable body of work. A weary and wise police detective (Alain Delon with his piercing eyes) is solving Paris' serious crimes. Along comes Simon (Richard Crenna) and his band of thieves who exact a couple of daring, nearly perfect crimes. By chance the police get a clue and go about pursuing the criminals. The further into the film we go, the more complex the story becomes. Both men are friends/more than friends with Cathy (the exquisite Catherine Deneuve at her iciest), and they are acquainted with each other. As the police close in on Simon and his band, destroying them in the process, the commissioner goes about his business with a dull matter-of-factness. Tomorrow will bring another crime to solve.
This movie is like chevre (goat cheese) rolled in ash. That tart, distinct taste is recognizable anywhere. It may be a bit of an acquired taste, but once drawn in, it awakens and enlivens the taste buds with each consumption. The ash gives it a bit of grit, which blends perfectly with the flavor. 8/10
http://blog.myspace.com/locoformovies
This movie is like chevre (goat cheese) rolled in ash. That tart, distinct taste is recognizable anywhere. It may be a bit of an acquired taste, but once drawn in, it awakens and enlivens the taste buds with each consumption. The ash gives it a bit of grit, which blends perfectly with the flavor. 8/10
http://blog.myspace.com/locoformovies