Rififi (1955)

 Jules Dassin's "Rififi"


While I do think Jules Dassin's 1955 film "Rififi" is one the best French gangster films from the 1950s that I've seen ("Touchez Pas au Grisbi" definitely being up there), the genre in itself doesn't usually satisfy me. "Rififi," although garnering some interest, was not as engaging as public opinion would have led me to believe. I do recognize the films merits and would undoubtedly watch the film again (as its reachability is not in question). However, it does not have any thematic depth that would romance me in any way.

I think the highlight for me is the heist sequence, of which everyone would undoubtedly agree. The only unfortunate notion is that this heist sequence is only 20 minutes or so of the whole story. The heist sequence is tactfully done suspense that completely captivates the viewer. The rest of the film is your typical run-of-the-mill 50s French gangster film, of which I'm not typically inclined to enjoy. 

I will note, however, my complete adoration for Dassin's unique directional choices. This is especially true towards the end of the film when the safety of the men starts to unravel. The more manic and/or panicked the characters seem, the bolder camera choices Dassin makes. Whether its a first person perspective dolly push-in or rapid editing in the final driving sequence, Dassin's choices create an emotional engagement with the characters.

While I don't typically enjoy the gangster film as a whole, there are certain entries that are worthy of attention and praise. While "Rififi" may not have lived up to the expectation set by its unanimous praise, I still felt it was one of the best gangster films I've seen from the period.



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