Classic Revival: ‘Le Samourai’ (1967)

First, let me just say this … if you’re wondering why I sometimes write about “old” movies, its because I like to watch “old” movies as much as I enjoy watching “new” movies … and there’s some really cool “old” movies out there to be seen. So, for any of you who’ve seen them … right on! For those who haven’t, maybe these little blasts from the past will spark a curious itch that just must be scratched.

Le Samourai was written and directed by Jean-Pierre Melville. The film holds a subtle but monumental influence on some future films with similar themes. The story follows Jef Costello, a lone hit-man who is cool-headed and flawlessly calculated in his work. Nothing is left to chance. Costello completes a job, but finds himself picked up along with several other suspects. After a lengthy interrogation, Costello is released and he meets with his contact to collect payment. Costello learns that this job has taken a turn for the worse and he must turn the tables on his employer while eluding the law.

More than any other reason, the visual style of Le Samourai is what makes this film so great. The drab colors combined with the sharp angles and edges of the city and Costello’s environment, compliment the contrast of lighting and shadows and emphasize the straight-faced, almost robotic demeanor of Costello’s personality. While watching the film, its not difficult to pick out how it has influenced future film-makers. One of the most apparent is that of Luc Besson, best known for films with similar themes like La Femme Nikita and Leon: The Professional.