That Man from Rio (1964)

Bad Acting and worse Bad Screenplay

While it doesn't offer any answers, it both thrills and makes you think.

It’s fine. It's literally the definition of a fine movie. You’ve seen it before, you know every beat and outcome before the characters even do. Only question is how much escapism you’re looking for.

Yes, absolutely, there is fun to be had, as well as many, many things to go boom, all amid an atmospheric urban jungle.

A lot of fine artists squandered their talents on this crock, not least Jean-Paul Rappeneau, who has written and/or directed - sometimes both in the same project - some excellent movies like Bon Voyage, Cyrano de Bergerac etc. Again maybe it's another case of you had to be there - I've just seen this for the first time exactly fifty years after its initial release - but frankly I was astounded at how banal it was. It is, I have to say, one of those films I've heard good things about for years and is some cases from people whose opinion I respect but against that in each case they watched the initial release. You'll go a long way to find a greater admirer of French cinema than I am which is why I take no pleasure in rating it a mere five. I have in my DVD collection of French films Viper au poing, the last film that Philippe de Broca made and I love it and watch it often. Alas, I can find nothing positive to say about this effort.

A friend recommended this film to me, as I hadn't seen it and I enjoy spoof films. I was surprised that this film was, or is not, widely known, or admired. It is the kind of film that they just don't make anymore, a film that everyone can enjoy, with a handsome hero going through all sorts of fantastic adventures for the woman he loves. It seems unbelievable that some people have given this film a low rating for it has everything that a good film should have; a personable hero, fast-pacing and excitement. It is also very funny and, at times, very suspenseful, but it is also bright and breezy, with never a dull moment. It is the perfect film for everyone.It definitely get's a ten in my book. I will watch it again and again.

First of all, let me comment on a misconception in some other reviews: the "search for the lost treasure of an exotic civilization" plot predates Spielberg's Indiana Jones, Peck/Sharif's Mackenna's Gold, this Belmondo vehicle and even Franz Lang's 1919 Spiders. The creators of That Man from Rio clearly knew what they were doing when they decided to use this hoary plot and make gentle fun of it.Unfortunately, the execution is not particularly good. Indifferent camera work and a fatal lack of any "dramatic tension" sense make the movie more tedious than entertaining. In addition, Belmondo, who had had his big break four years earlier, isn't as sparkling as he could be just a few years later. You can tell he tries, though.Having said all that, there are a few good things that need to be said about the movie. The viewers are kept guessing whether A or B is The Bad Guy until the final revelation. A few moments during the obligatory bar brawl scene look fresh. There is a minor but amusing twist at the end of the jungle sequence.Mostly watchable -- although you may check your watch a few times -- so let's say 5/10.

A film that can be watched many times and one that has been a family favorite of ours for years. While the plot may not be that sophisticated, Belmondo is remarkable and the pace of the film is perfect for the light-comedy/action genre. If you don't speak French, the film is still a wonderful treat with subtitles. The theme song in Portuguese is haunting and memorable.