Flic Story (1975)

Flic Story Poster

The film story depicts Emile Buisson, following the death of his wife and child, escaping from a psychiatric institution in 1947 and returning to Paris. Buisson, who three years later would become France's public enemy number one, begins a murderous rampage through the French capital.

Overview
"Flic Story" is a 1975 French criminal offense movie directed by Jacques Deray, based on the autobiographical book by Roger Borniche. Starring two of France's most popular actors, Alain Delon and Jean-Louis Trintignant, the film explores the cat-and-mouse video game between Borniche (Delon) and notorious criminal Emile Buisson (Trintignant). The film retells real criminal events of the post-war period in France and explores who is more ethical - a law-fearing detective or a ruthless criminal?

Plot
In pursuit of Buisson, Flic Story unveils the ups and downs of Borniche's career. Buisson, the most wanted criminal in post-war France, handles to get away from authorities time and again, escalating his criminal offenses from break-ins to murders, triggering public outcry. Borniche, a devoted and smart inspector, is handed the obligation to capture Buisson.

As the story deciphers, it depicts the tactical game between Borniche and Buisson. Unlike standard criminal offense stories where the lead character uses large force to capture the villain, Borniche uses his intellect and remarkable detective skills to hound the shrewd Buisson.

Characters
Alain Delon, playing Borniche, radiates professionalism and ethical integrity. The actor makes his character appear relatable by showcasing his worry of criminals and compassion for their typically unfortunate backgrounds. Jean-Louis Trintignant, on the other hand, masterfully displays the harmful and unforeseeable nature of Buisson, adding dimension to the savage crook.

Themes
The smart plot exposes the state of the French justice system post World War II, laying bare the untreated power of the authorities and their substantial corruption. It also questions the principles of using violence as a way of achieving justice.

Springing from the clash between these 2 figures, "Flic Story" seriously interrogates the thin line separating legal pursuits of justice from unlawful personal revenge. The mental battle in between Borniche, the law abider, and Buisson, the law offender, frames the gripping suspense.

Effect
"Flic Story" delights in an unique location within the French movie noir category. Released in the 70s, it offers a fresh take on the classic cop-criminal narrative instead of following the contemporary pattern of gangster movies. The film redefined the idea of police-criminal dynamics and set a high bar for numerous crime thrillers to follow. Moreover, the leading performances of Delon and Trintignant significantly contributed to the film's appeal and important recognition, boosting their already legendary status in French movie theater.

Conclusion
"Flic Story" is a gripping and intelligent criminal offense thriller that intricately checks out the limits of law, morality, and vengeance. It presents an important representation of the post-war French justice system, questioning the actions undertaken in the name of law and justice. The excellent efficiencies of the leads sustain the stress and suspense throughout the motion picture, making "Flic Story" an entertaining yet thought-provoking cinematic experience.

Top Cast

  • Alain Delon (small)
    Alain Delon
    Roger Borniche
  • Jean-Louis Trintignant (small)
    Jean-Louis Trintignant
    Émile Buisson
  • Claudine Auger (small)
    Claudine Auger
    Catherine
  • Renato Salvatori (small)
    Renato Salvatori
    Mario Poncini
  • André Pousse (small)
    André Pousse
    Jean-Baptiste Buisson
  • Marco Perrin
    Vieuchene
  • Henri Guybet (small)
    Henri Guybet
    Hidoine
  • Maurice Barrier (small)
    Maurice Barrier
    Rene Bollec
  • Denis Manuel (small)
    Denis Manuel
    Lucien Darros
  • Maurice Biraud (small)
    Maurice Biraud
    Owner of the Saint-Appoline hotel
  • Mario David (small)
    Mario David
    Raymond Pelletier