the  Samurai

Le samouraï

France, Italy, 1967, 105 min

Director: Jean-Pierre Melville             

Cast: Alain Delon, Cathy Rosier, François Périer, Michel Boisrond, Nathalie Delon

“There is no greater solitude than that of the samurai, unless it is that of the tiger in the jungle… perhaps….”

Jef Costello, a contract killer with samurai instincts.

After carrying out a flawlessly planned hit, a contract killer finds himself caught between a persistent police investigator and a ruthless employer, and not even his armor of fedora and trench coat can protect him.

 An elegantly stylized masterpiece of cool by maverick director Jean‑Pierre Melville.

This role is one of Delon’s best, with his brooding mannerisms no doubt having influenced many contemporary actors.

"Le Samouraï" exceeded all  expectations — Melville created a masterpiece, a film in which every frame and choice is carefully executed, all the while being avant-garde in its storytelling.

Restored in 4K by Pathé and the Criterion Collection at L’Immagine Ritrovata from the 35 mm original camera negative.

Language: French with English subtitles

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnRt1qSLPBQ&t=1s