According to the song "Rififi" that one character sings in the film, the title means "rough and tumble". That is a good description of the underworld characters that inhabit this film. The action starts when Tony, who recently was released after five years in prison, re-establishes contact with family and friends, who quickly lure him into a jewel caper. These guys are pros and, with Tony's guidance, they meticulously plan the heist.
The execution of their plan takes place without dialogue or background music, accentuating the silence so necessary for their plan.
In most heist films, the job itself is the final, climactic part of the story. In Rififi, the real story takes place after the job. Without revealing too much, I will say that this is a film about human nature. It reminds us that individuals almost never change their natures.
Furthermore, almost all the characters in this film have their vices or weaknesses. The film talks about "the rules", the unwritten principles that guide the actions of gangsters and conmen alike (for example, not ratting on associates). Due to their weaknesses, many of the characters violate the rules and fall prey to others.
One scene to look for is when Cesar visits the jewelry store to case the security. He asks to use the phone, leaving his cash splayed over the countertop--a strategy of distraction that also is a basic con (confidence game).
This film is blessed with topflight direction, great photography, good acting and a lean, well-written script.
The execution of their plan takes place without dialogue or background music, accentuating the silence so necessary for their plan.
In most heist films, the job itself is the final, climactic part of the story. In Rififi, the real story takes place after the job. Without revealing too much, I will say that this is a film about human nature. It reminds us that individuals almost never change their natures.
Furthermore, almost all the characters in this film have their vices or weaknesses. The film talks about "the rules", the unwritten principles that guide the actions of gangsters and conmen alike (for example, not ratting on associates). Due to their weaknesses, many of the characters violate the rules and fall prey to others.
One scene to look for is when Cesar visits the jewelry store to case the security. He asks to use the phone, leaving his cash splayed over the countertop--a strategy of distraction that also is a basic con (confidence game).
This film is blessed with topflight direction, great photography, good acting and a lean, well-written script.