Classe Tous Risques is a film that I have been meaning to see for some time now, as it supposedly occupies a space between the stellar French gangster films of the 50s and the French classics of the 60s. However, I found myself bored with its lack of emotion or feeling. The story is simple enough: an old criminal in Italy must escape to Paris while avoiding backstabbing friends and the police. Along the way he becomes friends with Eric Stark (Jean-Paul Belmondo) and loses his wife during a shoot-out with police. Now, he must lead his two children to safety in a country that wants him dead. This has the potential for great drama and emotion. However, I feel that the film struggles from a serious case of miscasting. Lino Ventura plays the principal character. However, he has an almost impossible time doing any emotion whatsoever. This works magically in hard-boiled roles in gangster films such as Touchez Pas au Grisbi. However, this role demanded someone who could portray a man who was willing to give his life to protect his children. Ventura comes off as lifeless, emotionless, and monotone. The art, style, and attitude of the film is all present and accounted for. But without a heart in its central role, it will be forever lacking.
6/10
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