The Gentleman from Epsom
The Gentleman from Epsom

Movie spotlight

The Gentleman from Epsom

1962
Movie
82 min
French

The story takes place in the racecourses around Paris. A so-called major sells his tips to naive characters.

Insights

IMDb6.4/10
Director: Jean-Pierre MockyGenres: Comedy, Crime

Plot Summary

A mild-mannered accountant, Arthur Dubois, discovers that his wife is secretly involved in a bizarre pyramid scheme. As he tries to unravel the truth and rescue his wife from financial ruin, he becomes entangled in a complex web of deceit and shady characters. The situation escalates comically as Arthur, usually timid, finds himself in increasingly absurd and dangerous situations.

Critical Reception

The Gentleman from Epsom was a moderate success in France, appreciated for its dark humor and the comedic performances of its lead actors, particularly Bourvil. While not a critical darling, it's remembered as a solid example of French popular cinema from the era, offering a satirical look at avarice and societal pressures.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its clever, albeit dark, humor.

  • Bourvil's performance is a highlight, showcasing his talent for both comedy and pathos.

  • The film offers a witty critique of greed and societal ambition.

Google audience: Audience reception is not widely documented on Google. However, viewers generally appreciated the film's comedic elements and the performances of the lead actors, finding it an entertaining satirical piece.

Fun Fact

The film is notable for being one of the later collaborations between beloved French comedians Bourvil and Francis Blanche, whose on-screen chemistry was a significant draw for audiences.

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