Mörder nach Vorschrift

It is hard to believe that this film has been directed by Marcel Carné,a man who gave the world one of the most admired French films called "Les enfants du paradis".The basic idea of this film consists of the conflict between judiciary and police which has pernicious effect on society as ordinary citizens are harassed in the name of police investigation and routine procedure.Marcel Carné shows that in a democratic setup even the life of a most ordinary citizen is as important as that of a respected lawmaker.This is because nobody is above the law.Jacques Brel gives one of his most memorable performances of his career as a judge who investigates a case involving the death of a small time criminal.Les Assassins de l'ordre is one of the few French films which tackled the theme of police versus judge.Marcel Carné shows his hero to be critical of injustice taking place around him.This film needs to be seen for its sympathetic portrayal of French youth who support judge Level in his quest for truth.There are good supporting performances by Charles Denner,Didier Haudepin and Michel Lonsdale.