A Legitimate Defense
A Legitimate Defense

Movie spotlight

A Legitimate Defense

1958
Movie
98 min
French

Two friends from the last war, Pierrot, a bar owner, and Gustave, a police inspector, are in contact with a notorious gang of racketeers in Montmartre. Tired of putting up with Albert the King's demands, Pierrot kills the gangster during a bar brawl. His first instinct is to flee, but on Gustave's advice, he turns himself in to the law. All things considered, he'll be safer in prison than exposed to the reprisals of the "underworld". Pierrot goes to trial. He was acquitted as having acted in self-defense. But his release leaves him open to the vengeance of Bob, one of Albert's accomplices. Pierrot narrowly escapes an ambush, but is finally able to rid himself of the threat hanging over him, thanks to the friendship of Inspector Gustave, and finally reunites with the companion of his life, Dora, who has never stopped trembling for him.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: Bernard KnowlesGenres: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Film-Noir

Plot Summary

A former boxer, now a private investigator, is hired by a distraught woman to find her missing husband. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deceit, blackmail, and murder, putting himself in grave danger. He must navigate treacherous encounters and unravel the truth before he becomes the next victim in a deadly conspiracy.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'A Legitimate Defense' received mixed to positive reviews, with critics often praising its taut suspense and noir atmosphere, though some found the plot convoluted. Audiences generally appreciated its crime-thriller elements and the performances of its lead actors.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its suspenseful atmosphere and noir stylings.

  • The performances of the lead actors were generally well-received.

  • Some critics found the plot to be somewhat predictable or overly intricate.

Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for 'A Legitimate Defense' is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The film was originally released in the UK as 'The Second Face'.

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