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Alain E @AlainE Oct 31, 2025 The late Mr Ebert is correct on this one. I wanted to see it because 70 years ago I was born in a former French colony where it is not safe to travel at present. The cast includes some very well known actors, especially Isabelle Hupperte. The whole concept is a silly improbable comedy. See more

S R @ScottR Apr 3, 2023 Saw it for its interesting premise and its ratings, but was let down with the lack of purpose. It remained aloof of the local culture despite their being so integrated. Instead it focused on its contrived plot that did not resonate. It does have good moments, but I don't plan to see it again. It was on HBO. See more

steve m @MovieSteve Nov 4, 2021 Jim Thompson darkness done as French farce. Really doesn't work but it's fun watching them try. See more

Aug 1, 2017 One of the finest French films of the 1980s. See more

Nov 7, 2016 Sun-baked neo-noir, based on a novel by Jim Thompson (Pop. 1280), and directed by Bertrand Tavernier who transposed it from the U. S. South to a French colony in western Africa in the 1930s. Philippe Noiret plays the local cop who, at first, seems none too bright, preferring to give in to get along, rarely arresting anyone and letting those in power kick him around (including his wife and her n'er do well brother). So, when he starts putting his plan for revenge into effect - or maybe he just cracks, it's hard to tell - this viewer wasn't quite sure what was happening. But slowly and surely, the rude and the mighty get offed and Noiret finds himself bedding the young Isabelle Huppert, more or less oblivious to what the town might think. Perhaps his lazy manner provides the perfect cover because no one seems too troubled by the deaths, perhaps, indeed, he did the town a favour... In the end, Coup de Torchon is more of a character study and a snapshot of colonialism gone bad than a tightly plotted film noir, but its looseness and indirect approach is definitely part of its appeal. See more

Aug 13, 2016 I tried this film on a whim because it was Criterion Collection and I like French films, and I am glad I did as I loved it. I went in cold, I knew nothing about the film other than it was directed by Bertrand Tavernier. I was happy to discover that it starred Philippe Noiret and Isabelle Huppert. I was surprised by the tone of the film, part film-noir, black comedy, thriller, it is all over the place and all the better for it. The script is great, as is the direction, the score is unique and offbeat and the cinematography amazing. Seek this film out! See more

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