Perhaps best known for his role as the projectionist in Cinema Paradiso, Philippe Noiret delivers a subtly powerful performance in this 1973 film from the prolific Bertrand Tavernier (Coup de Torchon, Sunday in the Country). Based on a novel by Georges Simenon, the story revolves around the reaction of a mild-mannered watchmaker (Noiret) to the fact that his son has been accused of killing an allegedly abusive factory owner. Jean Rochefort is affecting as the understanding police inspector who sympathizes with the aggrieved father--despite his duty to bring in the suspect. Boasting a decent looking if unspectacular transfer, and no extras, this is still definitely recommended. (T. Rich)
[Blu-ray/DVD Review—Sept. 2, 2021—Kino Lorber, 105 min., in French w/English subtitles, not rated, Blu-ray: $29.95, DVD: $19.95] Making its debut on Blu-ray and latest appearance on DVD, The Clockmaker of St. Paul (1974) features a fine transfer and extras including a new introduction by filmmaker Walter Hill, audio commentary by director Bertrand Tavernier, interviews with Tavernier and Philippe Noiret (2001) and Tavernier alone (2008), and a booklet with excerpts from Tavernier's memoir. Bottom line: Kino’s new Blu-ray release of the late Tavernier’s classic debut feature represents a vast improvement over their earlier DVD edition.]