The Black Book/Reign of Terror has the style of a gangster movie fused with the screenplay of a classic spy story, which is set in an anarchical post-revolution France. But somehow it works as a better than average action-thriller.
The story is a rather standard cloak-and-dagger tale about a true "French patriot" trying to bring down an evil, authoritarian- wannabe regime from the inside by using his wits and dodging the occasional volley of musket fire. Naturally, he's mixed up with a former love-interest-turned-resistance-facilitator, which of course complicates the real mission at hand: restoring the honor and glory of France. Despite the been-there-done-that story, the screenplay is fast-paced enough and has its share of twists and turns to keep the viewer engaged and entertained throughout.
The real reason you should make an attempt to dig this one up, is for the film making. The style is reminiscent of something made in the 60's (vs. 1949)with its tight close-ups, shot construction (especially for dialogue), and the attention to lighting to highlight the mood. It's an excellent study of how to do more with less. It actually looks more like a modern movie vs. a filmed play, which seemed to be the prevailing style at the time.
All and all with its adequate story and its unique visual style, the Black Book is worth a viewing...if you can find it. Ah yes, and the carriage chase will make you appreciate how difficult it must have been in the old days to have a high-speed shoot out with flint lock pistols while trying to steer your horses around the narrow Parisian streets and alleys...comparably makes those cops and gangsters with their flashy sedans and tommy guns look like wimps.
The story is a rather standard cloak-and-dagger tale about a true "French patriot" trying to bring down an evil, authoritarian- wannabe regime from the inside by using his wits and dodging the occasional volley of musket fire. Naturally, he's mixed up with a former love-interest-turned-resistance-facilitator, which of course complicates the real mission at hand: restoring the honor and glory of France. Despite the been-there-done-that story, the screenplay is fast-paced enough and has its share of twists and turns to keep the viewer engaged and entertained throughout.
The real reason you should make an attempt to dig this one up, is for the film making. The style is reminiscent of something made in the 60's (vs. 1949)with its tight close-ups, shot construction (especially for dialogue), and the attention to lighting to highlight the mood. It's an excellent study of how to do more with less. It actually looks more like a modern movie vs. a filmed play, which seemed to be the prevailing style at the time.
All and all with its adequate story and its unique visual style, the Black Book is worth a viewing...if you can find it. Ah yes, and the carriage chase will make you appreciate how difficult it must have been in the old days to have a high-speed shoot out with flint lock pistols while trying to steer your horses around the narrow Parisian streets and alleys...comparably makes those cops and gangsters with their flashy sedans and tommy guns look like wimps.