Jean Dujardin

The Connection (La French) Review

By Jenny Alvarez

Photos Agency

“The Connection” was  directed and co-written by Cédric Jimenez and is a stylish, 70’s-period crime thriller inspired by true events, it tells the story of real-life Marseilles magistrate Pierre Michel (Academy Award® winner Jean Dujardin) and his relentless crusade to dismantle the most notorious drug smuggling operation in history: the French Connection. In his crosshairs is charismatic and wealthy kingpin, Gatean “Tany” Zampa (Gilles Lellouche), who runs the largest underground heroin trade into the States. Though the fearless and tenacious Michel, aided by a task force of elite cops, will stop at nothing––including boldly orchestrated drug raids, devastating arrests, and exacting interrogations––to ensure the crime ring’s demise, Zampa’s “La French” always seems one step ahead. As La French mounts its retaliation, Michel will be forced to make the most difficult decision of his life: to continue waging his war, or ensure his family’s safety.

Definitely you will have new perspective on a familiar story in French style. Full of dialogues and scenes taken from previous crime classics with an intense fighting among his generals and by the eventual revelation of police corruption. During 135 minutes, the viewer will see how French police is organized and the most remarkable part of this film was shot on 35mm film, even making note of where screenings will be shown in 35mm. Dujardin with early seventies sideburns looks great and very realistic in his role. Good photography and ambience with tragic end but viewers will have their own point of view for it.