All 21 Rene Clement Movies
Welcome to our roundup of Rene Clement movies, where we delve into the world of this remarkable French filmmaker. In this article, we explore some of Clement’s most renowned films and discuss how his unique style and vision have left a lasting impact on the world of cinema. Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery, celebrating Rene Clement’s exceptional contributions to the movie industry.
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1. Box of Dreams (1945)
“Box of Dreams, “ known as “La boîte aux rêves, “ is a French romantic comedy-drama released in 1945, starring Viviane Romance. Set in a bohemian flat, the young and enigmatic character played by Henri Guisol is the center of attention for the charming and persistent Nicole. But things take an unexpected turn when Nicole’s goal of seduction leads to a tale of love, passion, and self-discovery.
2. Mr. Orchid (1946)
“Mr. Orchid, “ directed by René Clément and Noël-Noël, is a riveting tale of deception and resistance set in the tense atmosphere of 1940s France under Nazi occupation. The film centers around Edouard Martin, a seemingly ordinary fifty-year-old man who harbors a shocking secret — he is the leader of a resistance network operating in the Charente region.
3. Beauty and the Beast (1946)
In the enchanting realm of 1946 France, the mesmerizing tale of Beauty and the Beast unfolds. Jean Cocteau, a master of surrealism, takes the classic fairy tale and weaves it into a captivating cinematic experience. In a world where the beautiful and the terrifying coexist, a young woman named Belle must confront the heartrending choice between love and duty.
4. The Battle of the Rails (1946)
The Battle of the Rails, alternatively titled La bataille du rail, is a gripping drama-war film directed by René Clément and penned by him and Colette Audry. Set in France during the 1940s, this movie presents the courageous endeavors of French railroad workers who fought against German occupation in World War II. With its thrilling action sequences and nail-biting drama, the film highlights the immense power of humanity’s resilience in the face of adversity.
5. The Damned (1947)
“The Damned” (1947), also known as “Les maudits, “ transports viewers back to the harrowing last days of World War II. The tension is palpable as a motley crew of misguided Nazis and complicit loyalists attempt to evade justice by using a clandestine, submerged submarine.
6. The Walls of Malapaga (1949)
“The Walls of Malapaga, “ directed by René Clément and released in 1950, is a poignant drama and romance film that centers around a French fugitive finding a new lease on life upon arriving in Genoa. The fugitive’s entanglement with an Italian woman and her innocent young daughter sparks a series of intertwined relationships and a journey of personal growth for the protagonist. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Italy, this film masterfully weaves a tale of hope, love, and second chances.
7. The Glass Castle (1950)
In “The Glass Castle, “ a captivating tale of love, loyalty, and self-discovery unfolds as Evelyne, the young wife of Judge Bertal, embarks on a passionate journey of the heart. Set in the exotic setting of Italy during a holiday, Evelyne’s life takes an unexpected turn when she falls for Remy, a charming Parisian. As the lines between love and temptation blur, Evelyne is faced with a choice that will irrevocably alter her life.
8. Forbidden Games (1952)
Forbidden Games, a poignant drama released in 1952, follows the heart-wrenching story of a young French girl orphaned in a German air attack. In a time of war and death, she finds solace in the company of the son of a poor farmer. As they navigate the harsh realities of life and loss, the film takes an unexpected turn with a focus on death, a dead dog, and the innocence of children.
9. Knave of Hearts (1954)
Knave of Hearts, originally titled Monsieur Ripois, is a delightful romantic comedy and drama film from 1954, directed by René Clément. The story chronicles the intriguing and unpredictable consequences that arise when a philandering scoundrel fakes his own death. Featuring deceptive schemes and unexpected turns, this film perfectly showcases the wit and charm of the genre.
10. Gervaise (1956)
“Gervaise” is a poignant and gripping drama set in the heart of Paris during the 19th century. The film follows the life of Gervaise, a destitute laundrywoman struggling to make ends meet amid the harsh realities of society. Trapped in a never-ending cycle of poverty and despair, Gervaise’s story is a stark reminder of the human cost of social inequality.
11. This Angry Age (1958)
“This Angry Age, “ set in the tumultuous 1950s French Indochina, follows the Dufresne family as they fight to survive through harsh economic times and natural disasters. The film captures the essence of the 1950s and the struggle to maintain resilience in the face of adversity. With a stellar cast including Silvana Mangano, Anthony Perkins, and Richard Conte, the drama unfolds amid the backdrop of a farm in a tropical storm. The film, directed by René Clément, delves into themes of survival, family, and the rock ’n’ roll era. With a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes, prepare to be drawn into this engrossing tale of the human spirit.
12. Purple Noon (1960)
Purple Noon, released in 1960 and helmed by René Clément, tells the story of Tom Ripley, a charming yet dangerous anti-hero. Set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea, the film follows Ripley as he navigates a web of deceit and violence in a desperate bid to maintain his extravagant lifestyle.
13. The Joy of Living (1961)
“The Joy of Living, “ directed by René Clément, is a 1961 Italian-French comedy film starring Alain Delon, Barbara Lass, and Gino Cervi. Set in the aftermath of World War II, the story revolves around Ulisse, a naive young man eager to find employment. He surprisingly forgoes a job offer from a group of fascists, choosing instead to join the Fossati family, anarchists whose beliefs remain unknown to him.
14. The Day and the Hour (1963)
“The Day and the Hour” is a nail-biting drama set in Nazi-occupied France during World War II. The film follows a courageous Frenchwoman named Odette, as she risks everything to save two downed Allied airmen. With the Germans hot on their trail and the constant danger of discovery, Odette must use her wits, charm, and unwavering determination to help these soldiers escape and make their way into neutral Spain.
15. Joy House (1964)
Joy House, a gripping 1964 drama directed by René Clément, captivates audiences with its riveting crime plot and intricate character dynamics. The film follows a petty criminal, played by the charismatic Alain Delon, who stumbles upon solace in the seemingly idyllic home of two affluent American women, portrayed by Jane Fonda and Lola Albright. As the criminal becomes enmeshed in the women’s luxurious lifestyle, he discovers that appearances can be deceiving. The enticing atmosphere of Joy House, with its sultry scenes of bikini-clad women and barefoot femmes fatales, sets the stage for a thrilling game of cat and mouse. In this alluring tale of love, greed, and betrayal, viewers are swept away on a rollercoaster of emotions as the characters navigate the treacherous waters of passion and deceit. With its stunning cinematography and captivating performances, Joy House is an unforgettable exploration of the human heart and its insatiable cravings. Directed by the legendary René Clément and written by a talented trio of Pascal Jardin, Charles Williams, and Clément himself, this 1 hour and 37 minute film boasts a star-studded cast that includes Alain Delon, Jane Fonda, and Lola Albright. Joy House, originally titled Les félins, is produced by Cité Films and Compagnie Internationale de Productions Cinématographiques (CIPRA) and shot predominantly in French with some English dialogue.
16. Is Paris Burning? (1966)
“Is Paris Burning? “ is an intense historical drama set in August 1944, as the Allies draw closer to Paris. The city’s resistance groups, determined to oust the Germans, plan an uprising. However, Hitler’s ultimate goal is the destruction of the city if the Allies’ victory seems inevitable. Filled with suspense and emotional drama, this 1966 film is nominated for 2 Oscars and directed by René Clément, with a star-studded cast including Jean-Paul Belmondo, Charles Boyer, and Leslie Caron. Delving into the 1940s, the film showcases the struggles and courage of those fighting against oppression, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in history and war dramas.
17. Rider on the Rain (1970)
“Rider on the Rain” is a gripping 1970 crime drama film that follows the journey of a US Army colonel in France who is on a mission to track down an escaped sadistic sexual predator. Directed by René Clément and written by Sébastien Japrisot, the movie features powerful performances by Charles Bronson, Jill Ireland, and Marlène Jobert. As the story unfolds, viewers are taken on a thrilling and suspenseful ride filled with action, intrigue, and unexpected twists.
18. The Deadly Trap (1971)
In 1971, Italian-French thriller “The Deadly Trap, “ also known as “La maison sous les arbres, “ hit theaters. Starring Faye Dunaway, Frank Langella, and Barbara Parkins, the film is a gripping tale of kidnapping, industrial espionage, and the dark secrets that lie behind closed doors. Featuring a chilling suspenseful atmosphere and a unique blend of giallo and French cinema, this psychological thriller will keep viewers on the edge of their seats as they unravel the twisted tale. So, if you’re ready for a thrilling and suspenseful cinematic experience with a dark, psychological twist, “The Deadly Trap” is the perfect movie for you.
19. …And Hope to Die (1972)
In “. . And Hope to Die, “ also known as “La course du lièvre à travers les champs, “ released in 1972, a seasoned crook played by Jean-Louis Trintignant finds himself on the run and in need of a new partner for his heinous schemes. He seeks refuge with a ruthless criminal gang, led by Robert Ryan, who devise a risky plan to commit a kidnapping as their next big score. As fate would have it, things don’t go according to plan, sparking a thrilling tale of unexpected twists and turns.
20. Wanted: Babysitter (1975)
Wanted: Babysitter, released in 1975, is a gripping crime thriller that captures its audience from the very beginning. The movie revolves around a naive young girl while she is babysitting the son of a wealthy food mogul. In the blink of an eye, she and the boy become hostages of an ex-stuntman and a vengeful movie star.
21. Le battant (1983)
“Le battant” is a 1983 French crime drama directed by Alain Delon and Robin Davis, and stars Alain Delon, Anne Parillaud, and François Périer. The film, with a runtime of 2 hours and 1 minute, follows Jacques Darnay, portrayed by Alain Delon, as he is released from prison after serving eight years for a crime he did not commit. He had been wrongfully convicted of stealing diamonds and the murder of a jeweler.
