U.S., 1971, 104 min, DCP, Dir. William Friedkin, Rated R, 20th Century Studios


The French Connection

Sunday, December 3

The French Connection is routinely included...on the short list of movies with the greatest chase scenes of all time. What is not always remembered is what a good movie it is apart from the chase scene.”
—Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times

“The French Connection is a knockout police thriller with so much jarring excitement that it almost calls for comic-book expletives. POW!, ZOWIE!”
—Jay Cocks, Time

Selected by Mitchell Kaplan

Two narcotics detectives, "Popeye" Doyle and his partner Buddy Russo (Gene Hackman, Roy Scheider), start to close in on a vast international narcotics ring when the smugglers unexpectedly strike back. Following an attempt on his life by one of the smugglers, Doyle sets off a deadly pursuit that ultimately takes him far beyond mere New York City limits. Based on a true story, this action-filled thriller, with its renowned chase scene, won five Academy Awards® including best picture and Best Actor for Gene Hackman.


Check out the rest of our Movies We Love! Selected by Steven Krams & Mitchell Kaplan program!