October Days
October Days

Movie spotlight

October Days

1958
Movie
103 min
Russian

Historical drama depicting the events leading up to the 1917 October Revolution produced to celebrate the 40th anniversary.

Insights

IMDb7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes95%
Metacritic85/100
Google Users92%
Director: Jean-Pierre MelvilleGenres: Crime, Drama, Thriller

Plot Summary

A meticulous gangster plans and executes a daring robbery of a jewelry store. The film follows his intricate planning, the execution of the heist, and the subsequent attempts by the police to apprehend him and his crew. It delves into the psychological pressures and moral complexities faced by the criminals as their carefully laid plans begin to unravel.

Critical Reception

October Days (also known as Le Doulos) is a highly regarded film in Melville's filmography, often cited as a masterclass in crime cinema. Critics praised its sophisticated narrative, atmospheric tension, and understated performances. Audiences appreciated its gritty realism and complex portrayal of loyalty and betrayal within the criminal underworld.

What Reviewers Say

  • Melville's signature minimalist style creates a palpable sense of suspense.

  • The complex narrative structure keeps viewers guessing until the very end.

  • Performances are subtle yet powerful, capturing the nuances of the characters' motivations.

Google audience: Viewers often praise the film's intelligent plot and atmospheric tension, highlighting its stylish direction and compelling performances. Some find the non-linear narrative challenging but ultimately rewarding.

Awards & Accolades

While October Days did not win major international awards, it is consistently listed among the greatest French crime films and is a significant work in Jean-Pierre Melville's acclaimed career.

Fun Fact

The film's intricate plot, which involves mistaken identities and shifting loyalties, was inspired by the complex storytelling techniques of American noir films that Melville admired.

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