The Professional

The French film "The Professional," released in 1981, is an espionage thriller that became an instant classic due to its gripping plot, credible performances, and memorable music. The movie is directed by renowned filmmaker Georges Lautner and features stellar performances by Jean-Paul Belmondo, Jean Desailly, and Cyrielle Clair. The film's original title is "Le Professionnel" and its salient theme music, "Chi Mai," created by the great Italian composer Ennio Morricone, reached worldwide fame.

Jean-Paul Belmondo plays the role of Josselin Beaumont (code name Joss), a secret agent working for the French Secret Service. Belmondo, known for his charismatic on-screen presence and daredevil stunts, brilliantly portrays this complex character stimulating a blend of emotions in the viewers. His character slips delicately between a macho secret agent to a tormented man with a mission injecting a dose of humanity that connects with the audience on a deeper level.

The plot of The Professional revolves around the political intrigue and power play. The protagonist is sent on an undercover assignment to the fictional African country, Malagawi, to assassinate its President N'Jala. However, things take an unexpected turn when Beaumont is double-crossed by his own agency due to political expediency. A drastic change in political climate puts Joss in a precarious situation. Instead of being the hunter, he becomes the hunted.

The plot twists don't end there. Apprehended and sentenced to a long term of hard labor, Joss's storyline could have effectively ended there. However, a miraculous escape puts him back in Paris, seeking revenge on those who betrayed him. His singular aim becomes to fulfill his initial mission of eliminating the President N'Jala, who is now on French soil.

Complications arise with the introduction of Alice Ancelin, played by Cyrielle Clair. As the wife of one of the men who condemned him, Alice becomes instrumental in Joss's plot. Mysteriously beautiful and unpredictable, Alice forms the female lead in this thrilling narrative trail.

Jean Desailly plays the role of Inspector Rosen, the man assigned to stop Joss at any cost. The cat and mouse game between Beaumont and Rosen adds a layer of intrigue and suspense that keeps viewers gripping the edge of their seats.

"The Professional" stands out because of its atmospheric set design and realistic action sequences. Joss's character takes centre stage, seamlessly transitioning from a suave agent, an escapee disguised as a vagabond, to a relentless pursuer on the run. His determination in face of severe adversity is an intriguing aspect of the movie. The gritty, bustling streets of Paris and the grandeur of Africa are depicted beautifully, adding to the overall aesthetics of the film.

Another fascinating aspect of "The Professional" is its soundtrack. The recurrent leitmotif, "Chi Mai," accentuates the movie's essence and heightens pivotal moments, making it an enticing aural treat. The music masterfully underscores the movie's intense emotional scenes, establishing an eerie and dramatic ambiance.

In conclusion, "The Professional" is a quintessential espionage thriller film that has inspired generations of spy movies. Its riveting plot enriched with betrayal, revenge, and desire for justice, compelling character portrayals by the stellar cast led by the charismatic Belmondo, a striking backdrop, and the unforgettable compositions make it a must-watch for fans of the thriller genre. The film not only excels with its storytelling but also reflects on the human condition and the uncompromising pursuit of justice, making it a cinematic ride worth experiencing.