Based on a Simenon novel (and probably much finer artistically than the source), this film reposes mainly on ths sturdy shoulders of Philippe Noiret, who is magnificent as a middle-aged tradesman who is trying to come to terms with the fact his son has killed a man. He tries to keep a level head as the political-media frenzy explodes all around him; a very hard thing to do in France, where the political affiliations of killer and victim are endlessly discussed in every cafe, every home.
Jean Rochefort plays the inspector, a frustrated idealist turned sour by the realization that he has found his level in the justice system and will not rise above it. The wary relationship between cop and father is the basis of the film--the son sppears only in the brief scene on the plane, a masterpiece of emotional restraint.
Jean Rochefort plays the inspector, a frustrated idealist turned sour by the realization that he has found his level in the justice system and will not rise above it. The wary relationship between cop and father is the basis of the film--the son sppears only in the brief scene on the plane, a masterpiece of emotional restraint.