La Femme flic (1980) - film review

A young female police inspector, Corinne Levasseur, is re-assigned to a provincial town after having implicated a public figure in a drugs scandal.  Here, Levasseur investigates a case of suspected child abuse and uncovers a paedophile ring.  Unfortunately, again she finds that she is up against some influential people and the police are not on her side...

This is a film which addresses two important issues which are a major concern for our society.  These are blatant sex discrimination in the police force and the manipulation of the police by senior public figures.  Although the intention is well-meant and should be welcomed, Boisset’s treatment of these subjects is far from satisfactory.  Resorting to stereotypical caricature, predictable plotting, with a script that lacks humour and impact, the film falls flat.   Unusually, Yves Boisset’s casting looks a bit suspect, particularly for his lead actress.

Miou-Miou is a very capable actress but she appears totally mis-cast in the lead role.  Surely, the film ought to be saying that her character, the woman police inspector, has the ability and determination to get her job done, in spite of her male colleagues’ resistance and hostility towards her?  Unfortunately, Miou-Miou’s portrayal is that of an ineffectual wimp who constantly looks as if she is about to burst into tears.  No wonder her boss thinks that all she can do is file reports and make the tea.  It really looks as if the actress is quite disinterested in the role or, at least, has nothing worthwhile to contribute.  Without a strong central character to carry the film, the film drags, lacking momentum, interest value or purpose.

With a stronger central character, the film would probably have genuine impact.  Although it is played down somewhat, the ending looks quite promising.  Instead - despite being competently directed and photographed – the film appears so half-hearted, like a weak episode from a second rate television detective series.   Compare this with Boisset’s earlier film on a similar theme, Le Juge Fayard dit le shérif, and you really wonder if this is the work of the same director.

© James Travers 2000

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