Movie spotlight
The French
Roland-Garros, 1981: For the very first time, a documentary team is allowed to shoot sequences in the backstage of the French Open of tennis of Roland-Garros. William Klein's camera takes us on the heels of the greatest players of the time: Björn Borg, Jimmy Connors, Ivan Lendl, Chris Evert-Lloyd, John McEnroe, Martina Navratilova, Yannick Noah, Guillermo Vilas... Miles of film. Historical pictures, a thousand and one details, a thousand and one unusual scenes. A declaration of love from a tennis lover.
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary delves into the intricate operations of the French Connection drug smuggling ring, following the investigation by law enforcement. It provides a gritty look at the individuals involved in the international heroin trade, from the high-level kingpins to the street-level pushers. The film showcases the complex network and the lengths to which criminals went to distribute their illicit product.
Critical Reception
The French received mixed to positive reviews from critics, who often praised its raw authenticity and unflinching portrayal of the drug trade. However, some critics found its pacing slow and its subject matter disturbing. Audiences were generally intrigued by the insider look at a notorious criminal enterprise.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its gritty realism and exposé of the drug trade.
Some found the film's pacing to be sluggish.
The documentary offers a disturbing yet fascinating look into criminal operations.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews and ratings for 'The French (1982)' is not readily available.
Awards & Accolades
None notable.
Fun Fact
Director William Friedkin aimed for extreme authenticity, reportedly using real law enforcement tactics and personnel in the film's re-enactments and interviews.
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