Bravely, a police detective arrests two thieves intent on stealing a statue from a church. Much to his surprise, he discovers that a female photographer has taken pictures of his exploits. Charmed by the woman's beauty, he embarks on a love affair with her, not realizing that she is the mistress of his direct superior. One does not need supernatural powers in order to predict that it is all going to end in tears...
A French adaptation of American source material, "Police Python 357" feels so utterly French that one could be mistaken about its inspiration. The movie is a mix of thriller and dark psychodrama. It boasts a prestigious cast, interestingly layered characters and an ingenious, twisty plot. Suspense is maintained until the very last minute. And of course the basic premise (a man forced by circumstances to investigate himself) is a miracle of bitter irony.
The character played by Yves Montand is quite an intriguing one. The viewer is invited to wonder about the kind of man who would knowingly and willingly inhabit a dwelling that's part monk's cell, part gunsmith workshop. Somehow the idea of a middle-aged loner melting his own bullets while preparing an "omelette aux fines herbes" does not entirely reassure.
"Police Python 357" can also be read as a cautionary tale about the ease with which experienced investigators can fake, erase or twist evidence. Policemen, lawyers, public prosecutors, judges - they're all capable of gaming the system, should they wish to do so...
A French adaptation of American source material, "Police Python 357" feels so utterly French that one could be mistaken about its inspiration. The movie is a mix of thriller and dark psychodrama. It boasts a prestigious cast, interestingly layered characters and an ingenious, twisty plot. Suspense is maintained until the very last minute. And of course the basic premise (a man forced by circumstances to investigate himself) is a miracle of bitter irony.
The character played by Yves Montand is quite an intriguing one. The viewer is invited to wonder about the kind of man who would knowingly and willingly inhabit a dwelling that's part monk's cell, part gunsmith workshop. Somehow the idea of a middle-aged loner melting his own bullets while preparing an "omelette aux fines herbes" does not entirely reassure.
"Police Python 357" can also be read as a cautionary tale about the ease with which experienced investigators can fake, erase or twist evidence. Policemen, lawyers, public prosecutors, judges - they're all capable of gaming the system, should they wish to do so...