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Review
This is arguably one of the best and most original French films of the 1970s – a decade
which did French cinema few favours but which did, from time to time, throw up the occasional
nugget of gold.
Série noire offers a fascinating and poignant study of a born loser, played brilliantly by Patrick Dewaere, in possibly his most memorable role. Franck Poupart’s pitiful attempts to improve his lot are as tragic as they are comic, and provide the basis for this first rate jet-black comedy. Although he is a distinctly nasty piece of work – capable of cold-blooded murder without a moment’s qualm – Franck always comes across as the victim – manipulated by his wife, harangued by his teenage mistress, exploited by his clients and bullied by his employer. This double view of Franck is emphasised by the saleman’s apparent schizoid disorder and violent mood swings. From his crazed, precarious point of view, his actions and behaviour appear perfectly rational. It is this which gives the film its feeling of authenticity and impact. The main reason why the film works as well as it does is down to one vital ingredient: Patrick Dewaere. Watching his performance you are utterly convinced that he is either genuinely insane or that he is a remarkable acting talent – or possibly both. Look at how fiercely he tries to head-butt his car. Look how disturbed he appears when gazing at his own reflection in a mirror. Seldom is such a difficult role played so convincingly. In a part which he might well have been born to play, Dewaere surpasses genius by several leagues. Perhaps more than any of Dewaere’s other films, this film reveals probably most about the troubled actor and – possibly – presages his suicide only a few years later. © James Travers 2000 Write a review for this film...User Comments
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Director:
Alain Corneau
Starring: Patrick Dewaere, Myriam Boyer, Marie Trintignant, Bernard Blier, Jeanne Herviale Synopsis
Franck Poupart is a neurotic door-to-door salesman working in a run-down suburb of Paris.
His wife walks out on him and his employer treats him like dirt. One of his customers,
an old woman, prostitutes her neice, Mona, to Franck in exchange for new clothes.
Mona reveals that her aunt has a hidden stash of banknotes – and a loaded revolver.
Franck sees an immediate opportunity to start a new life...
Credits
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