Coup de Torchon (1981)

 

A pathetic police chief, humiliated by everyone around him, suddenly wants a clean slate in life - and resorts to drastic means to do so.

From memory: This adaptation of a Jim Thompson novel is a very dark satirical drama, full of black humor, masterfully directed in an African setting, with a remarkable performance by Noiret amidst a likewise great cast.

Halliwell (no star): "Well-made, heavy-going study of mania."

Maltin***1/2: "Strong, disturbing black comedy...Fascinating film eventually overplays its hand, but enthralling most of the way, with marvelously shaded performance by Noiret."

 

The Killing (1956)

Crooks plan and execute a daring race-track robbery.

Tough noir-style heist drama, meticulously directed with an unusual time structure and a first-rate cast.

On rewatching: perfect noir thriller, every view you find new details.

Halliwell**: "Incisive, entertaining, downbeat caper movie clearly influenced by The Asphalt Jungle and Rififi."

Maltin***1/2: "The film that really put Kubrick on the map - a case study of a racetrack heist, with a colorful cast of characters...Major flaw: the Dragnet-style narration."

The Killing (1956)

Crooks plan and execute a daring race-track robbery.

Tough noir-style heist drama, meticulously directed with an unusual time structure and a first-rate cast.

Halliwell**: "Incisive, entertaining, downbeat caper movie clearly influenced by The Asphalt Jungle and Rififi."

Maltin***1/2: "The film that really put Kubrick on the map - a case study of a racetrack heist, with a colorful cast of characters...Major flaw: the Dragnet-style narration."