Le chat et la souris

"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.

I found a copy of this film, released on video in 1981. The film has not been re-issued on any other format. The film should be restored, with a director commentary. The film has one of the most clever plots ever to be displayed on film. I certainly do not want to spoil the plot for any interested viewer, so I will say little in the plot. The scene where the detectives are trying to time driving from Paris to the countryside is a gem. Brialy and Aumount are at their best. This film is just as enjoyable as another Lelouch film "Robert et Robert" which is also very hard to find, but still out there. Hopefully criterion or anchor bay will restore these classics and make them available for future movie going generations.

The commissioner Lechat and his colleague Pierre Chemin are in charge of the investigation of the death of Mr. Richard. At the first sight it looks like a fake suicide. Besides some important paintings have disappeared. Immediately Mrs. Richard become the main suspect. Is her alibi true ? So we have the scene in which Lachat and Chemin are timing the transfer from Paris to the villa in the countryside and also the return from the villa to Paris.

But this film is also a comedy ; the story of the relationship between Lechat and Mrs. Richard, the commissioner says Mrs. Richard that he is sure that she killed her husband, but at the same time he doesn't want to send her to jail. Some characters are framing Mrs Richard,we don't understand why, but little by little Lechat and Chemin understand for example the kidnapping of Mrs. Richard.

I enjoyed this film , especially the performances of Serge Reggiani, Philippe Léotard and Michèle Morgan: but Jean-Pierre Aumont, Valérie Lagrange, Michel Pereylon, Christine Laurent , Philippe Labro Arlette Emmery, Erik Colin and Yves Alonso made good performances.

The Cat and the Mouse is classic thriller with many twists. Like its star Michele Morgan in her last feature role, it has survived the test of time wonderfully. The film oozes style and realism whilst never appearing to do too much or be too self-conscious. Some of the scenes and camera shots used by Lelouch have long been stolen by American and Hong Kong cinema but they still feel fresh and effective.

The two lead, Regianni from Casque D'Or and Morgan from Port of Shadows are both right on point, they play their role with sobriety and panache. The film is captivating from beginning to end. Throughout this extensive investigation, Lelouch paints a realistic portrayal of humanity and temptation, from all levels of society.

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...