5 Must-Watch Alain Delon Films
The iconic French actor passed away yesterday, August 18th, and here at L'OFFICIEL, we have compiled his five best films.
Known for his immense charisma and willingness to commit to every role, Alain Delon is one of the most legendary figures of French cinema. Delon emerged in the 1960s as one of Europe's most esteemed rising stars. Through the '70s and '80s, he developed into a full-blown international sex symbol. Delon's style and leading-man status made him a worldwide icon of cinema and a solidified star. Delon, the definition of a problem child, was notoriously unruly, and he has always credited his problematic upbringing with his dedication to his work and perfectionism.
Alain Delon's influence also extends to romance; his relationship with Romy Schneider was a beam of light in the 1960's. The two French cinema legends were at the peak of their careers, and meeting on the set of Christine fell deeply in love. They purchased a triplex right on the Seine and were one of the standout couples of the entire decade.
The actor struggled with type B lymphoma during the last years of his life and is survived by three children. To celebrate Delon's legacy, L'OFFICIEL has selected five of his classic films as must-staples of cinema history. These films perfectly illustrate the extent of the actor's talent and his lasting impact.
Full Sun (1960)
Directed by René Clément, this psychological thriller stars Delon as Tom Ripley, a young American man hired to bring the son of a wealthy industrialist back to Europe. Fascinated by the latter's luxurious life, Ripley develops a Machiavellian plan to seize his identity for himself. This film helped launch Delon's international career.
Rocco and His Brothers (1960)
In this Italian drama, Delon plays Rocco, a young man from southern Italy who emigrates with his family to Milan, hoping for a better life. The film depicts the family struggles and tensions that arise as they try to adjust to their new life in the city. Rocco's character, both tender and tragic, is one of Delon's most memorable roles.
The Samurai (1967)
Delon plays Jef Costello, a solitary and methodical hitman who falls into deep, deep trouble after a contract when he witnesses a crime that puts him in danger. As he tries to cover his tracks, he is hunted by both the police and those who hired him. The film is a masterpiece of the noir genre, with a cold and minimalist atmosphere.
The Swimming Pool (1969)
Jean-Paul (Alain Delon) and Marianne (Romy Schneider) are a glamorous couple spending a sunny holiday in a sumptuous villa with a swimming pool in Saint-Tropez. Their tranquility is disturbed by the arrival of Harry (Maurice Ronet), a friend of Jean-Paul, accompanied by his young daughter, Pénélope (Jane Birkin). Harry, Marianne's former lover, begins to arouse Jean-Paul's jealousy by openly flirting with her. Tensions rise between the four characters, and the situation degenerates when Jean-Paul, under the influence of jealousy, commits an irreparable act.
Borsalino (1970)
This story takes place in Marseille in the 1930s. Roch Siffredi (Alain Delon) and François Capella (Jean-Paul Belmondo) are two charismatic small-time crooks who become friends after courting the same woman. Together, they decide to team up to climb the ladder of Marseille's criminal underworld. They start by taking over small local trafficking operations before tackling the city's big businesses: racketeering, prostitution, and gambling. Their meteoric rise brings them into conflict with other influential criminals and the authorities. But their boundless ambition and friendship are tested as the stakes become increasingly dangerous.
