Summary
In autumn 1939, a young Jewish family are fleeing from the Nazis when they meet an ex-boxer
(played by Jean-Paul Belmondo) who helps them to escape. This event inspires the
ex-boxer to play an active part in the struggle against the Nazi occupation in the years
that follow.
Review
This is a clever re-working of Victor Hugo's novel, set at the time of the German occupation
in France. Although quite a long film (nearly 3 hours), it is well-paced with a
great deal of action and drama. Jean-Paul Belmondo puts in a very creditable performance
in what is probably one of his better films.
If the film has one fault it is the unnecessary insertion of scenes taken directly
from Victor Hugo's story to re-enforce the parallels between the actual events and the
fictional story.
Otherwise, this is a very watchable and enjoyable film, with a gripping introduction and
a very satisfying conclusion.
© James Travers 1999
|
