All out crime thriller, starring Gene Hackman.
Set in the urban decay of NYC, two police detectives try to break a drug smuggling ring with links to France. Their investigation takes them through the gritty underworld of petty narcotics, to the high-octane corruption of the trade which spans two continents.
The storyline is an excellent example of what a crime thriller should be: dangerous, twisted, and full of energy. The performances are excellent, in particular Hackman, who deserves his Oscar. One of the biggest flaws of films in this genre, is the script. Too often they are laboured and full of pointless clichés. The French Connection however has a brilliant script, that is full of cut-throat lines but does not waste time by putting in sentiment or distraction.
When someone mentions The French Connection the first image that comes to mind is Hackman during the infamous car chase. It is an amazing set piece, that spans several miles of streets, railway lines, and other places around the city. The stunts are impressive, and are remain that way with a modern eye.
The main flaw of this film is the music. It may have seemed excellent in the early seventies, but today it dates the movie tremendously. It is tinny, irritating and manages to spoil several of the key scenes. Another criticism would be the ending, it is somewhat unsatisfying.
Apart from those two minor faults, this film is one of the best crime-action flicks around. It is a measuring truncheon for any wanna-be cop movie.
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