The movie Man on the Train is a 2002 French film directed by Patrice Leconte and written by Claude Klotz. It is a character-driven drama that explores the themes of identity, mortality, and the choices we make in life.
Johnny Hallyday plays Milan, a tough and enigmatic criminal who arrives in a peaceful village with the intention of robbing the local bank. As he waits for his accomplices to arrive, he spends time getting to know the town and its people. Along the way, he meets M. Manesquier, a well-educated retiree who introduces him to the joys of literature, art, and philosophy.
Jean Rochefort delivers a standout performance as the mild-mannered teacher who yearns for adventure and excitement. He becomes fascinated by Milan's wild and unpredictable nature, while Milan is drawn to Manesquier's calm and thoughtful demeanor. The two men form an unlikely bond and begin to live vicariously through each other's experiences.
As the day of the bank robbery approaches, Milan and Manesquier find themselves at a crossroads. Milan must decide whether to go through with the heist or abandon his criminal ways and start a new life. Manesquier, on the other hand, must choose between his comfortable existence as a retiree and the thrill of a life on the run.
Man on the Train is a poignant and thought-provoking film that explores the universal themes of human connection and the search for meaning in life. The chemistry between Hallyday and Rochefort is palpable, and Leconte's direction injects the film with a somber and melancholic tone. It is a film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.