Le Cercle Rouge - (Melville;1970;France) - ****
One man is released from prison, another escapes. Together with an ex-cop they plan a heist on a jewelry store.
Melville's films supposedly inspired many such as Tarantino. I can also see how Michael Mann was inspired by him. The characters are real. They're professionals, not macho badasses seen in most of the shitty crime movies these days. Henri Decae's cinematography is also beautiful, making every scene even better to watch. The lighting is also top notch, such as when Corey descends in the elevator. Alain Delon, Yves Montand, and Gian Maria Volonté are all great in their roles, as well as the supporting cast. All the ingredients of an excellent film is here.
#14