Le chat et la souris

This film has stayed near the top of my recommendation list since I first saw it in 1976, in spite of the fact that I haven't seen it but once since then, when I found a copy on Betamax (remember Sony?).

The storyline is an interesting and romantic mystery between a detective and the femme fatale suspect. The many plot twists and turns are only bettered by the wonderful cinematography and mr. LeLouch's delicious direction through the streets of Paris and the countryside of France.

I have seen many "foreign" films the past 30 years, and this one has continued to hold a fond place in my memory. There is so much dreck on video, and so many pleasant little films for the over-twelve audience have simply slipped through the cracks and disappeared into the mists of time. A real shame for those of us tired of seeing endless scenes of carnage and violence...

"Cat and Mouse," directed by Claude Lelouch and released in 1975, is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that still manages to captivate audiences with its intricate storytelling and exceptional performances nearly five decades later. This French film is a masterclass in tension-building and character development, making it a must-watch for fans of suspenseful cinema.

The plot of "Cat and Mouse" revolves around the intriguing and high-stakes game of wits between two characters, played brilliantly by Michel Bouquet and Jean-Louis Trintignant. Bouquet portrays Morand, a dedicated and relentless police inspector, while Trintignant plays Roche, a cunning and resourceful criminal. The film opens with Roche's daring escape from custody, setting the stage for a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase that lasts throughout the entire movie.

One of the standout elements of "Cat and Mouse" is the superb character development. Bouquet and Trintignant give exceptional performances, making their characters feel real and multi-dimensional. Bouquet's Inspector Morand is determined and relentless, driven by his pursuit of justice, while Trintignant's Roche is a charismatic and enigmatic antihero whose motives are shrouded in mystery. The dynamic between these two actors is electric, and their performances elevate the film to another level.

Claude Lelouch's direction is nothing short of masterful. He creates an atmosphere of constant tension and suspense, using tight camera work and a haunting musical score to keep the audience on the edge of their seats. The film's pacing is excellent, with each scene adding a layer of complexity to the story and ratcheting up the suspense. Lelouch's decision to keep the focus on the two main characters and their psychological duel pays off brilliantly, making "Cat and Mouse" a character-driven thriller that stands the test of time.

In addition to the outstanding performances and direction, "Cat and Mouse" also boasts impressive cinematography, capturing the beauty of various European locations. The film's use of the picturesque landscapes contrasts sharply with the dark and intense cat-and-mouse game, creating a visually striking backdrop for the unfolding drama.

While "Cat and Mouse" is a gripping thriller, it also explores deeper themes of morality and the human condition. As the film delves into the motivations and vulnerabilities of its characters, it raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of good and evil, justice and revenge, and the choices we make in life.

In conclusion, "Cat and Mouse" is a timeless thriller that continues to enthrall audiences with its impeccable performances, masterful direction, and suspenseful storytelling. If you appreciate suspenseful cinema with complex characters and a gripping narrative, this 1975 classic should be on your must-watch list. It's a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in film and a reminder of the talent and creativity that emerged from French cinema during this era.

A rich bourgeois has died:is it suicide or murder?As he cheated on his wife ,and was about to divorce from her,the lady (Michèle Morgan) is the main suspect.

Claude Lelouch,who is ,at least to my eyes, a minor French director ,is at his best when he tries his hand at light thrillers or comedies ."Le Chat et la Souris" recalls "le Voyou" ,with its construction which looks like a puzzle ,its screenplay "à Tiroirs" and even the movie in the movie trick .Lelouch really plays cat and mouse with the audience as Detective Lechat (sic)(Regggiani) does with his still attractive suspect (or is it the other way about?).

There are plenty of funny scenes and some witty lines ("you see this distinguished lady riding a motorbike?");and the nail in the Rum Baba in the chic restaurant is a good idea to provide the detective with the final clue (so to speak,for "nail" is "clou" in French).

Objections: there are not enough scenes where Reggiani and Morgan are together ,and the scenes of the detective's private life (and his assistant's ,played by Philippe Leotard)get in the way.

This film accounts for the difference between Lelouch's world and ,say ,Chabrol's. The latter ,in his best works ,ferociously attacks the bourgeoisie.Lelouch,on the other hand ,makes sure the bourgeois moral is intact.Thou shalt not covet other people's possession.

This is a really sweet, charming comedy! Delightful!

(Yes, it is a parody; it's a comedy.)

This is the most ridiculous movie I ever saw. It supposed to be a detective story but not a single episode in it can stand a simple scrutiny. The events are so implausible that the movie often looks like a parody. There are many French detective stories with a script that has more holes than a fisherman's net. However, this one is the worst.