Le Doulos starts with an explanation of the title. While the word refers to the specific type of hat the gentlemen of this film wear, it has become a slang word meaning police informant. As such, an expectation is set– one of the thieves will end up as an informant. Admittedly, the path to get there is a bit convoluted, with every guy wearing the same trench coat and wide-brimmed fedora betraying each other (if they haven’t already), but the journey in finding the crook of crooks is made so intriguing by the strong direction of every scene. Each frame is shot in that signature shadowy light and visual innuendo that made film noir striking. It’s also paired with such a groovy score that sets the suspense of the heist that follows. So, while it may not be the most straightforward caper film, Le Doulos nonetheless is a fun pastiche of the film noir genre.
Synopsis
Enigmatic gangster Silien may or may not be responsible for informing on Faugel, who was just released from prison and is already involved in what should be a simple heist. By the end of this brutal, twisting, and multilayered policier, who will be left to trust?
Storyline
After finishing his prison sentence, burglar Maurice Faugel prepares for a big heist with his friends Rémy, Silien, and Jean. However, the police are onto him, and to catch him once and for all, they decide to coerce one of them to be a police informant.
TLDR
Can we consider bringing back film noir, please?
What stands out
The direction. It’s hard to explain the film with its plot, but the vibes alone captures the dark, broody aura of film noir as a whole.
