Rififi (1955)
What happens after the heist?
Presentation:
One of the greatest heist films of all time, this robbery is timeless in that it is just as engaging watching in 2025 as it is in 1955. The heist itself is already good, but the story after is even more captivating. Smooth camera movement, well paced, clean understandable dialogue, this doesn’t feel like a classic, it blends in next to heists of any era. Jean Servais plays a shadow of Humphrey Bogart, but I still prefer his performance to the more dramatic icon. The theatrical numbers mixed in with the story add a French lightness and production value, which would go on to inspire future generations of French directors.
Conclusion:
This is just a perfectly executed story with flawless execution. It sits shoulder to shoulder with the greats like Casablanca and is a marvel it was shot in 1955. It makes films even in the 60s look dumb. What I believe distinguishes Hollywood and European classics is the former focuses on actors and performances and the latter focuses on cinematography and story. You know a film is destined for greatness when the heist isn’t even the highlight of a heist film. A fantastic story and cinematic finish for ages.
Recommendations
Heist meets circus sideshow.