Gigot

This splendid film is a lost masterpiece. Most everyone I talk to that has seen it, saw it on a local television matinée. So far as I can tell it is not available on video. This wonderful film has fallen between the cracks somehow but the discovery of it only adds to it's charm. Like a rare natural wonder hidden far off the beaten path some afternoon, you may be trudging through your day and stumble onto this film, a beautiful sentimental picture.

If you like Capra, you will love Gigot. Not for the dark of heart or impatient, this film will move you to tears. It has the feel of a small foreign film, but has the heart as big as any film ever made. Directed by Gene Kelly, the set's are wonderful, the acting subtle and superb, the music perfect and most important of all "The Great One" Jackie Gleason's performance as the mute Gigot has a depth and pathos that few actors have ever achieved. I wonder if John Candy wasn't partially reflecting on 'Gigot' when he played his Del Griffeth character in 'Planes, Trains...' There is something behind these actors performances that could not have been acting. Like Buster Keaton, one gets the sense that deep down, the character is a reflection of the pain the actor truly feels. Check your local listings to see if this is playing and record it. A 10 out of 10.

Gleason, too easily typecast for his work with Art Carney, was a powerful dramatic actor. 'Soldier in the Rain' was a role many will more easily relate to. 'Gigot' is a very strange, demanding role, that Gleason masterfully delivers.

His performance is a throwback to Chaplin and Keaton, but with this caveat? In the era where those giants worked, films were more action packed and sub-titles existed.

In 'Gigot' Gleason is faithful to 1920's film constraints, within context of 1960's cinema. The man's facial expressions, body language are unforgettable to anybody who watches 'Gigot' with a careful eye.

Jackie Gleason was a powerful dramatic actor.

I have seen this movie a few times, and it just grows on you. Gleason shows how powerful a performance one can do without uttering one word.

Many have described this film well. It is a great performance by Gleason, and yes the little girl isn't the cutest, but she wasn't meant to be. It makes his love for her and the mother all the more powerful. The SADDEST part of this film is that it has never been released on Video or DVD yet. Perhaps someday Hollywood will catch up with the people's hearts.

if this movie isn't a 10, then there isn't a 10 anywhere. jackie gleason plays this character so beautifully, juxtaposed against the ruthless street-walking mother of the sweet young nicole. also the settings show a dichotomy of character with his poor-man surroundings, and the rich-man place he takes himself to........all the impress collette so that he can spend time with young nicole.

gleason was nominated for an academy award for his portrayal of gigot, but was lost in a very strong cadre of contenders.

does anyone know why this film has not been released on VHS or DVD? certainly it would sell.

this film is a keeper. i watch hundreds of movies but refuse to buy only the absolute best. wish i could buy gigot.

Never heard of this movie until I happened upon it today on cable. I was really surprised at how good it was. The movie is set in France, and it was filmed there so the scenery is very authentic. Most of the actors are French so are speaking English with a French accent which also makes the film seem more authentic. Good story line. Gleason plays a poor mute living in a basement flat. He takes in a prostitute and her adorable little girl. He's used and then rejected by the woman, but the little girl has fallen in love with him and sees him as her protector. Very unexpected ending.

A very wholesome film, rated G, I'll be able to show it in class to my students. Jackie Gleason was truly one of the last great entertainers of our time.