• It’s Belmondo’s take on James Bond (there were a ton of imitators from the early 60’s on) and he’s quite brilliant here. He’s absolutely charming and has the physicality and athleticism of more of a Daniel Craig type bond
  • Belmondo is smirking through virtually every line and chase
  • Wipe edits keep it light and breezy- the film is entertaining and goes by quicker than the 112 minute running time would indicate
  • One great exchange and example of Belmondo’s skill is that a little boy shines his shoes for him and since Belmondo is broke he returns the favor, comically, and shines the boy’s shoes and the kid loves it- it could be a silent scene
  • Adolfo Celi is here and would play and very good Bond villain the following year in thunderball
  • It’s also a travelogue in both Paris and Rio
  • Not near the top 10 of 1964 but still in the archives
  • Recommend