Tip Top (2013)

Tip Top Poster

Two policewomen from Internal Affairs arrive in a provincial precinct to investigate the death of an Algerian woman who was an informer. One punches, the other eyes, tip top.

Introduction
"Tip Top" is a 2013 French-Belgian comedy-crime film directed by Serge Bozon and starring Isabelle Huppert, Sandrine Kiberlain, and François Damiens. The movie is based upon the British novel of the exact same name by Bill James. The story focuses on 2 female Internal Affairs private investigators who are sent to a village to examine the death of an Algerian informant.

Plot
The film begins with the murder of an Algerian cops informant called Farid Benamar, whose body is discovered in a town in northern France. Two Internal Affairs detectives, Esther Lafarge (Isabelle Huppert) and Sally Marinelli (Sandrine Kiberlain), are sent out to the town to examine the case and check out the local police's possible involvement in the criminal offense. Esther is a hard-nosed, knowledgeable detective, while Sally is more sensitive and caring.

Upon their arrival, the 2 ladies rapidly settle into their objective, each with their special method. Esther immediately starts to inspect the local cops, interrogating them and examining their work routines. Sally, on the other hand, attempts to develop a more personal relationship with the law enforcement officer, wanting to gain their trust and reveal any hidden stress or secrets.

Their examination leads them to a number of suspects, consisting of a local gang of racist goons and corrupt policeman who might have been involved in Farid's murder. As they dig deeper into the case, Esther and Sally discover a web of corruption, violence, and betrayal within the police, as well as the town itself.

The Protagonists' Relationships
Throughout the film, Esther and Sally's relationship takes center stage. There's a growing stress between the two private investigators as they collaborate to solve the case. Their contrasting characters and investigative methods create dispute, however also a sense of balance that assists them decipher the numerous layers of the secret.

In addition, the movie examines the relationship between Sally and her husband, who is likewise a law enforcement officer. Through this subplot, the audience gets to see a more individual side of Sally and understand the battles and difficulties she deals with in stabilizing her work and individual life. This includes another layer of character development and depth to the story.

Style and Tone
"Tip Top" is a dark funny that utilizes a mix of humor and suspense to produce an intriguing and interesting environment. Its unusual visual design and eccentric discussion give the movie an absurdist quality that sets it apart from other police procedural.

The movie is a satire that cleverly critiques the French legal system, police, and society's views on race and immigration. In addition to being a murder secret, it serves as an appropriate commentary on institutional corruption, bigotry, and power characteristics in modern France.

Regardless of its apparently serious subject, the movie manages to preserve a lighthearted and sometimes amusing tone, that makes it accessible and pleasurable for audiences.

Reception
"Tip Top" premiered at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival and was met mixed evaluations from critics. Some applauded the film's special design and sharp social commentary, while others discovered the plot hard to follow and the humor too offbeat.

Even with its polarizing reception, the movie brought in attention thanks to the powerful performances of its two lead actresses, Isabelle Huppert and Sandrine Kiberlain, who successfully depicted the complex and appealing relationship between their characters.

Conclusion
"Tip Top" is a quirky and intriguing crime-comedy movie that checks out styles of corruption, power characteristics, and racial stress. Its distinct visual design and offbeat humor set it apart from other crime dramas and make it an enjoyable watch for audiences who value non-traditional storytelling. The strong performances by Isabelle Huppert and Sandrine Kiberlain include depth and intricacy to the story, making it a memorable and thought-provoking film experience.

Top Cast

  • Isabelle Huppert (small)
    Isabelle Huppert
    Esther Lafarge
  • Sandrine Kiberlain (small)
    Sandrine Kiberlain
    Sally Marinelli
  • François Damiens (small)
    François Damiens
    Robert Mendès
  • Karole Rocher (small)
    Karole Rocher
    Virginie
  • Aymen Saïdi (small)
    Aymen Saïdi
    Younès
  • François Négret (small)
    François Négret
    Nadal
  • Samy Naceri (small)
    Samy Naceri
    Gérald
  • Elie Lison (small)
    Elie Lison
    Rozynski
  • Saïda Bekkouche (small)
    Saïda Bekkouche
    Saïda Bekkouche
  • Issam Akel (small)
    Issam Akel
    Le voisin arabe
  • Alain Naron
    Bontemps