Les putains de la ville basse

Down Town (1975), directed by the acclaimed Jesús Franco, is a gritty and sensual noir thriller that delves into the shadowy depths of a bustling metropolis. While not Franco's most refined work, the film showcases moments of brilliance and a tangible ambiance that sets it apart from conventional exploitation cinema.

The film's strengths lie in its moody cinematography and Franco's skill in capturing the neon-lit allure of the city's nightlife. The seedy nightclubs and dingy alleyways come alive with a palpable sense of grit and menace, drawing the viewer into the film's noir-esque world.

Franco's frequent collaborator, the enchanting Lina Romay, delivers a standout performance as one of the film's sultry nightclub dancers. Her on-screen presence is captivating, and her scenes crackle with a raw sensuality that harmonizes perfectly with the film's seedy atmosphere.

Nevertheless, the film's narrative can be intricate and meandering at times, with subplots and characters introduced only to be abandoned or underdeveloped. The pacing is also hindered by uneven editing, with some scenes lingering unnecessarily while others feel rushed and truncated.

Despite these flaws, Down Town persists as an intriguing and atmospheric entry in Franco's extensive filmography. Although not a masterpiece, it offers a glimpse into the director's singular vision and his ability to create a gritty, noir-tinged world that captivates and unsettles in equal measure.