Crime,Drama,Thriller
France,Switzerland
L'Argent (1983) is a French film directed by Robert Bresson. The film tells the story of a counterfeit 500-franc note that changes hands several times, leading to a chain of events that destroys the lives of those who possess it. The movie is based on the novel "The Counterfeiters" by Andre Gide.
The story begins when a young man named Yvon (Christian Patey) tries to borrow money from his employer to pay for his daughter's communion. But when he is refused, he ends up stealing the counterfeit note from a customer at the garage where he works. Yvon doesn't realize that the note is forged and uses it to pay for his daughter's communion. The note then passes to a schoolboy, a shopkeeper, and finally to a photographer (Luc-Antoine Diquero).
The photographer tries to use the forged note to pay for his meal at a restaurant, but the waiter becomes suspicious and calls the police. The photographer is arrested, but in a bizarre twist, the police find out that the note is actually a forgery. The photographer is released, but his reputation is ruined in the process.
Meanwhile, Yvon's life spirals out of control. He loses his job, his wife leaves him, and he ends up turning to crime. He robs a store and kills a couple who catch him in the act. Yvon is eventually caught and sent to prison. The film ends with him staring out of his cell window, reflecting on the chain of events that led him to his current situation.
L'Argent is a compelling film that explores the devastating consequences of greed and desperation. It is a thought-provoking commentary on the nature of money and the impact it has on people's lives. Bresson's minimalist style and austere approach to storytelling make for a powerful viewing experience.
