French Connection II (1975, dir. John Frankenheimer)

French Connection II (1975, dir. John Frankenheimer)

What Is It?: The sequel to the 5-time Oscar winner (also available ON DEMAND until 11/16) following NYC detective Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle as he goes to Marseilles to find Heroin Distributor Alain Charnier, last seen getting away in the first film.

What About It?: An unusual sequel, not so much about more action or more chases but more about burrowing into Popeye's character. Allegedly much of the dialogue was improvised and it does have that feel -- Gene Hackman really wears Doyle's skin, but it makes for a somewhat ugly film. Shot with what feels like entirely telephoto lenses, rendering everything flat and in focus. Marseilles is depicted as gritty and urban and the audience is thrust into this confusing, unpleasant world just as Doyle is. When he's kidnapped by Charnier's coolies and, while imprisoned in some flop house, forced to shoot heroin, the film comes alive as we become invested in Doyle and the case.

Why Should I See It?: Primarily for Hackman's striking performance, up there with his best for sure. Also for the big set-piece chase scene. The first had the amazing car chase through Bensonhurst and though Frankenheimer is known for chase scenes -- he made the greatest race car movie of all time, Grand Prix, and Ronin has some of the best chases ever put on film -- he went with a riveting foot race.

What Else Is It Like?: Sudden Impact, Frantic, Rush.

Reserve it at the Multnomah County Library.

-- ddt/pdx