The Mysteries of Paris

A charming slice of vintage French cinema set in the romantic Paris of yesteryear. While the story occasionally drifts into nonsensical territory for the sake of romance, the film’s atmosphere makes it a delight to watch. The depiction of period Paris is mesmerizing, even if the plot feels a bit naive at times. But hey, it’s 1962 — what more could you ask for? (2022-09-02)

The Marquis de Sombreuil, a good-hearted rake and highway pirate, under the weight of a promise and his own remorse, is forced to infiltrate the Parisian underworld to clear his name, tarnished by intrigue, and rejuvenate his stable by rescuing a fragile girl from the clutches of a pimp. Though a few fiery gypsies and the Scarlet Pimpernel were missing, the statuesque Jean Marais filled in for them. He’s determined and brave, crushing enemies with steel fists, his kicks faster than Jean-Claude Van Damme’s between Lionheart and Double Impact, and when he heroically saves poor souls from the fire without a trace of soot left on him, you get the sense that the flames lick him not just by their nature. True, the villain Lansignac could have suffered more before his demise, but the romantic viewer's soul shouldn’t be too greedy. (2022-08-29)