I did not love this movie, but it was better than average--particularly because of its originality. However, to an American audience, it may be difficult to relate to the French justice system circa 1974. At first, the star of the movie, Philippe Noiret, is a rather apolitical man who seems quite ordinary. When the police inform them that his son has murdered someone, he initially does pretty much what the police ask. When the investigating officer tries to get close to Philippe (sort of "buddy buddy"-like), he allows him. However, through the course of the film, Philippe begins to see the police as the enemy and he rebuffs these attempts by the police to be friendly. The problem for me is WHO is right? Were the police at this point of time quick to violate human rights or manipulate the families of the accused? I really didn't know if Philippe was having his eyes opened to the truth or if he just learned to identify with and excuse evil. This would NOT pose a problem to a French audience but for those not familiar with the French legal system it seemed confusing--was Philippe a good man or a good man going bad? As far as the acting and pacing is concerned, this is a good flick.
Review of The Clockmaker
