Les Gros malins (1969) - film review

Butcher Paul Blanc is an avid horseracing enthusiast who likes to make a bet each week, although he never wins.  Then, one day, his luck suddenly changes.  In his sleep, he dreams the entire race for the following day.  The first time it happens, his well-meaning friends persuade his wife to back another horse, so he loses out on a fortune.  The next time, his winning ticket is stolen by a sinister crook named Francis.  Within no time, Paul’s strange ability to pick winning horses is reported in all the newspapers and the secret is soon revealed.  Paul’s dreams are caused by an unusual drug, Maginex, sent to him from his brother in South America.  The villainous Francis steals the magical tablets and then lures Paul to his home, with the intention of getting Paul to give him the names of winning horses in his sleep.  Unfortunately, the nasty side effects of Maginex have begun to become apparent…

The only notable thing about this madcap comedy is Francis Blanche’s  unhinged portrayal of a gangster villain, which is hilarious even if it is way, way over the top.  The ridiculous homespun plot makes the film more suitable for children than adults, even if the story is primarily a satire about gambling on the gee gees.

© James Travers 2006

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