Rififi by Jules Dassin: A Masterful Heist Unfolds in the Streets of Paris

Main Cast and Crew:

• Director: Jules Dassin
• Writer(s): Auguste Le Breton (novel), Jules Dassin (adaptation)
• Key Actors: Jean Servais as Tony le Stéphanois, Carl Möhner as Jo le Suedois, Robert Manuel as Mario Ferrati, Jules Dassin as César le Milanais
• Music Director: Georges Auric
• Director of Photography: Philippe Agostini
• Producers: Henri Bérard, Pierre Cabaud

Rififi is a French crime film directed by Jules Dassin. The story revolves around Tony le Stéphanois, a recently released ex-convict, who plans a daring heist in the streets of Paris. Tony recruits a team of skilled criminals, including Jo le Suedois, Mario Ferrati, and César le Milanais, to carry out the robbery.

The film begins with Tony’s release from prison, where he reunites with his old friend Jo. Tony learns about a jewelry store in Paris that holds a fortune in diamonds. Eager to turn his life around, Tony devises an elaborate plan to break into the store’s vault. The team meticulously prepares for the heist, studying the store’s layout, creating duplicate keys, and practicing their roles.

As the day of the heist arrives, tension builds among the crew members. They successfully disable the alarm system, drill through the vault’s floor, and retrieve the diamonds. However, their triumph is short-lived when they realize they are being watched by a rival gang. A violent shootout ensues, resulting in the deaths of Mario and César. Tony and Jo manage to escape, but Tony’s lover, Mado, is tragically killed in the crossfire.

Central Themes and Motifs:

Rififi explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of a life of crime. Tony, driven by his desire for redemption, risks everything to carry out the heist. The film also delves into the complex relationships between the characters, highlighting their conflicting loyalties and the sacrifices they are willing to make for their own gain.

The heist itself serves as a metaphor for the characters’ desire for freedom and a chance at a better life. However, the violent aftermath reminds them that their actions have consequences, and their pursuit of wealth comes at a great cost.

Reception and Legacy:

Upon its release in 1955, Rififi received critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of the heist and its intense, suspenseful atmosphere. The film won the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for a BAFTA for Best Film from any Source.

Rififi had a significant impact on the heist genre, influencing future films such as Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs and Steven Soderbergh’s Ocean’s Eleven. Its iconic 30-minute silent heist sequence, devoid of dialogue or music, remains one of the most memorable moments in cinema history.

Recommendation:

Rififi is a must-watch for fans of crime and heist films. Its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and masterfully executed heist sequence make it a timeless classic. Jules Dassin’s direction and the stellar performances by the cast create an intense and atmospheric experience that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Memorable Quote:

“You don’t need a guilty conscience to be a crook. You just need a conscience.”