Review of Le Samouraï (1967) by Zach N — 28 Jul 2010

Melville's "Le Samourai" is what John Woo considers the most nearly perfect film ever made. I may not agree with that, but this is still a fantastic film. It's all thanks to Melville and the character of Jef Costello.

Oh, also, this if my first review of three for a Criterion marathon I'm doing.

I always enjoy films that use small amounts of dialouge and great cinematography. I can see how many of today's spy/hitman type films get their inspiration. "The Transporter" gets its rotating license plates from the scenes when Jef Costello enters a garage to change license plates. "The Bourne Supremacy" gets its intense chase scenes where Jason Bourne outsmarts the cops ever so smartly from the subway chase sequence in this film as well. Really the list goes on and on.

I enjoy the fact that there is the samurai twist to it. Heck, it's the title of the movie. This could have easily been called, "The Hitman". But instead, it adds a much richer depth to the film and an aspect of honor to the character. It has a rather unexpected ending, which will leave you wondering. Give it a shot if you want a great French film with little dialouge and great directing.