Mortelle randonnée
1983 Crime / Thriller / Comedy
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Credits
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Summary
Beauvoir, an ageing private detective, has spent years trying to make contact with his
missing daughter. One day, he is assigned to a murder case, and finds himself
on the trail of a serial killer, Catherine. Convinced that she is his long-lost
daughter, Beauvoir helps the killer to evade capture by the police. Catherine finally
finds true love in a blind architect, Ralph, but he is killed in an accident provoked
by Beauvoir’s jealousy. Catherine once again goes on the run, teaming up with a
young crook, Betty. Undeterred, Beauvoir is not far behind…
Review
Easily one of Claude Miller’s most striking and subversive films, Mortelle
randonnée is the kind of seductively stylish comedy-thriller which only
the French know how to make. Forceful performances from charismatic lead actors
Michel Serrault and Isabelle Adjani (both at their best) lend the film a spine-tingling
intensity, and more than a touch of real poignancy. Some wickedly dark black
comedy and clever plot twists spice up what could have ended up as a straightforward parody
of the noir thriller. The overall result is certainly impressive – a hugely
original film that veers about like an out-of-control juggernaut, switching chaotically
between hard-edged thriller, profoundly unsettling drama and deliciously warped farce. It
is what you might call a killingly funny romp.
© James Travers 2007 Write a review for this film... |
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