Adieu poulet

Adieu Poulet, or The French Detective, is a vibrant and captivating 1975 French political crime thriller that amalgamates suspense, intense storytelling, and powerful performances. The movie is directed by Pierre Granier-Deferre, an influential figure in the French cinema industry, well-known for his profound collection of noir films. The film features the celebrated talents of Lino Ventura, Patrick Dewaere, and Victor Lanoux.

At the heart of the plot, you'll find the gritty streets of Rouen, France, overshadowed by the looming elections as a backdrop. The narrative is thickened by the intense rivalry between two candidates for the city’s upcoming elections – Lardatte and Vergez – making the movie a vivid reflection of political tension and intrigue.

The charismatic Lino Ventura shines in the role of Verjeat, an astute and tenacious Chief Inspector. Ventura's performance is unforgettable – his rugged determination and burly demeanor underline his character's tenacity, while his wry humor offers beneficial light-hearted moments amidst the film's dark narrative. Verjeat’s character carries a remarkable depth, given his unyielding commitment to justice, fighting crime, and maintaining law order, against all odds and despite the potential personal and professional repercussions.

Co-starring alongside Ventura is the prodigious Patrick Dewaere, who brilliantly encapsulates the role of a young, fervent police constable named Lefèvre. Though relatively new to the department, what he lacks in experience, he makes up for in courage and perseverance, forming an unlikely yet highly-effective partnership with Verjeat. Dewaere should be commended for his commendable depiction of Lefèvre, balancing the character's initial naïveté with his gradual development into maturity and wisdom gained from working with Verjeat.

Victor Lanoux plays Lardatte, a persuasive and cunning politician. An antagonist in the most complex sense, Lardatte's character ranges from shrewd political strategist to fearsome adversary, reminding the audience of the depths to which those in power can sink to retain their position. Lanoux’s performance is as enthralling as it is disturbing; his portrayal of the manipulative and power-hungry Lardatte adds a layer of tension and provocation to the storyline.

The plot rapidly escalates when a public demonstration takes a drastic turn, resulting in an incident of political violence that stuns the city. The intricacies of this case are further complicated by manipulations and intrigues stemming from the political rivalries, culminating in a wave of fear and confusion. As Verjeat and Lefèvre are tasked to investigate the incident, they are drawn into a series of plots, conspiracies, and hidden agendas that go far beyond the criminal aspect of their job descriptions. Their quest for truth brings them face-to-face with corruption, betrayal, and the darker side of political power play, testing their morals, loyalties, and duty to the law.

Adieu Poulet captures the underlying political corruption brilliantly. With the eerie and subtly dangerous raw energy of the political underworld, it brings out the terrifying aspects of the pursuit of power and the lengths to which people in high positions might go to protect their status. The narrative's complexity is heightened by the numerous political ploys and manoeuvres, interpersonal conflicts, and the individual battles each character fights, making it a compelling watch.

Director Pierre Granier-Deferre deserves praise for his contribution to French cinema. His straightforward storytelling style lends authenticity to the plot, and his focus on character development provides a humane touch to the characters, making them relatable and believable. The gripping cinematography reflects the raw energy of the political climate, adding a layer of realism to the narrative.

Adieu Poulet, translates to "Goodbye, Chicken" in English, is more than just a crime thriller. It's a profound exploration of the political climate of its time, unveiling the darker side of politics through the lens of an intricate criminal investigation conducted by two dedicated police officers.

The film brilliantly displays the classic essence of French cinema, maintaining a delicate balance between intense drama, enigmatic suspense, and melancholy imbued with a subtle wit – a true classic for the vintage cinema enthusiast.