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Credits
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Summary
A young female police inspector, Corinne Levasseur, is re-assigned to a provincial town
after having implicated a public figure in a drugs scandal. Here, Levasseur investigates
a case of suspected child abuse and uncovers a paedophile ring. Unfortunately, again
she finds that she is up against some influential people and the police are not on her
side...
Review
This is a film which addresses two important issues which are a major concern for our
society. These are blatant sex discrimination in the police force and the manipulation
of the police by senior public figures. Although the intention is well-meant and
should be welcomed, Boisset's treatment of these subjects is far from satisfactory.
Resorting to stereotypical caricature, predictable plotting, with a script that lacks
humour and impact, the film falls flat. Unusually, Yves Boisset’s casting
looks a bit suspect, particularly for his lead actress.
Miou-Miou is a very capable actress but she appears totally mis-cast in the lead role. Surely, the film ought to be saying that her character, the woman police inspector, has the ability and determination to get her job done, in spite of her male colleagues’ resistance and hostility towards her? Unfortunately, Miou-Miou’s portrayal is that of an ineffectual wimp who constantly looks as if she is about to burst into tears. No wonder her boss thinks that all she can do is file reports and make the tea. It really looks as if the actress is quite disinterested in the role or, at least, has nothing worthwhile to contribute. Without a strong central character to carry the film, the film drags, lacking momentum, interest value or purpose. With a stronger central character, the film would probably have genuine impact. Although it is played down somewhat, the ending looks quite promising. Instead - despite being competently directed and photographed - the film appears so half-hearted, like a weak episode from a second rate television detective series. Compare this with Boisset's earlier film on a similar theme, Le Juge Fayard dit le shérif, and you really wonder if this is the work of the same director. © James Travers 2000 Write a review for this film... |
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