Watch The Law

The Law, released in 1959, is a French-language film directed by Jules Dassin. The movie stars several notable actors, including Gina Lollobrigida, Pierre Brasseur, and Marcello Mastroianni. Based on a novel called Justice Is Done, the film explores themes of morality, justice, and power, all set within the beautiful and rugged landscape of southern Italy.

The story begins with the arrival of three convicts at a remote village. The men are Escalante, a handsome bandit, Francesco, a handsome, dying thief, and Leofreni, a lowlife rapist. The villagers are frightened by their presence, but the local law enforcement, led by the corrupt Don Cesare (Pierre Brasseur), is not interested in putting the men behind bars. Instead, Don Cesare makes a deal with the convicts: they can stay in the village and work as laborers, under the condition that they do not cause any trouble.

While the villagers are initially hesitant to accept the convicts, they slowly warm up to them. Escalante, in particular, becomes popular among the women, who can't resist his charm. One of these women is Marietta (Gina Lollobrigida), the beautiful young wife of one of the town's most respected citizens. Marietta is immediately drawn to Escalante, much to the chagrin of her husband, who is jealous.

As the story progresses, Marietta and Escalante's relationship deepens, and she becomes pregnant with his child. Her husband finds out about the affair and, in a fit of rage, attacks her. The resulting fight leads to the death of her husband, and Marietta is charged with murder. Despite her innocence, Don Cesare decides to use this opportunity to rid the village of the convicts, who are now seen as troublemakers.

The Law takes the audience on a journey that examines the nature of justice and the corruption of those in power. The film is a masterful blend of drama, romance, and suspense, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Italy's rural landscape. The performances of the actors are exceptional, with Gina Lollobrigida delivering a standout performance as the sympathetic and strong-willed Marietta. Pierre Brasseur also delivers a strong performance as the morally corrupt Don Cesare, whose lust for power ultimately leads to his downfall.

The Law received positive reviews upon its release and was praised for its compelling story and excellent performances. It also won several awards, including the Best Screenplay Award at the 1959 Cannes Film Festival. Today, the movie remains a classic of French cinema, continuing to captivate audiences with its gripping story and impressive visuals.

In conclusion, The Law is a must-watch for anyone who loves classic cinema. With its compelling story, unforgettable characters, and stunning visuals, this film is sure to leave a lasting impression. The Law has stood the test of time and remains a shining example of French filmmaking at its best.