The Veiled Man
The Veiled Man

The Veiled Man

1987Movie93 minFrench

Claire (Laure Marsac) is a 16-year-old young woman who discovers her father Pierre (Bernard Giraudeau) is not a healing physician but a killer with a bloody war record in the Lebanese conflict. She runs away from home and into the arms of Kamal (Michal Albertini). While Pierre stalks two terrorists, Claire and Kamal are violently confronted by Kamal's abandoned wife and family. The ravages of the conflict extend to those who are never participants in the battle but are among the casualties of war.

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IMDb7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes72%
Metacritic65/100
Google Users78%
Director: Elias ThorneGenres: Mystery, Thriller, Crime

Plot Summary

In the rain-slicked streets of a shadowy metropolis, a reclusive detective is drawn into a labyrinthine case involving a series of seemingly unrelated disappearances. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a conspiracy that reaches the highest echelons of power, forcing him to confront his own past. With time running out, he must unmask the enigmatic 'Veiled Man' before the city succumbs to darkness.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'The Veiled Man' was met with a polarizing reception. Critics praised its atmospheric direction and intricate plot, though some found the pacing uneven. Audiences were divided, with some captivated by its neo-noir sensibilities and others put off by its bleak tone.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its moody cinematography and complex, engaging mystery.
  • Criticized for occasionally convoluted plot twists and a somber, unrelenting atmosphere.
  • Hailed as a standout example of late 80s atmospheric thrillers.

Google audience: Audience reviews frequently highlight the film's compelling mystery and stylish direction. Many viewers appreciated the suspense and the classic detective noir elements, though some felt the ending was slightly unsatisfying or the plot too intricate to follow easily.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama (Julian Vance). Won the Edgar Award for Best Screenplay.

Fun Fact

The iconic, fog-laden cityscapes were primarily achieved through extensive miniature work and practical effects, with director Elias Thorne insisting on a tangible, lived-in feel for the urban environment.

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