Watch The Monocle

The Monocle is a French comedic film from 1964 directed by Georges Lautner and starring Paul Meurisse, Marcel Dalio, and Olivier Despax. The movie is a delightful combination of mystery and comedy, set in Paris during the 1960s. The story begins when a group of criminals plan a caper to rob a bank just outside Paris. The mastermind behind the heist is none other than the notorious Monsieur Dupont, known to the police as "Le Monocle". He is a master of disguise and has eluded the police for years. However, when he arrives to plan the heist dressed as a woman, he is spotted by a young boy who recognizes him. Knowing that his cover has been blown, "Le Monocle" kidnaps the boy, hoping to use him as leverage to complete the heist.

The police are called in, and Inspector Noel (Paul Meurisse) is assigned to the case. He is a no-nonsense detective with a dry sense of humor and a sharp intellect. With the help of his colleagues, including his bumbling assistant, Bouzigue (Marcel Dalio), Noel sets out to find the kidnapper and the missing boy.

As the investigation unfolds, the Inspector begins to piece together the identity of "Le Monocle" and his motivations for the heist. He learns that Dupont is not just a criminal, but also a former army officer who is seeking to restore his family's honor. The real reason for the heist is not just money, but revenge against those who dishonored his family.

The result is a fast-paced and witty comedy of errors, as Noel and his colleagues try to outsmart the elusive Le Monocle. Each attempt to capture him fails, and the police are left scratching their heads as they try to figure out his next move.

One of the highlights of the movie is the performance of Paul Meurisse as Inspector Noel. He is both tough and witty, and his character is reminiscent of a French Inspector Clouseau. He delivers his lines with perfect timing and wit, making him the perfect foil for Dupont.

The supporting cast is also strong, with Marcel Dalio providing some much-needed comic relief as Bouzigue. Olivier Despax is also excellent as Dupont, playing the character with a sly charm that makes him both likable and villainous.

The film is set against the backdrop of Paris during the 1960s, and the city plays an important role in the movie. The filmmakers use the streets and architecture of the city to create a sense of atmosphere and a feeling of authenticity. From the cafes and bistros to the alleys and backstreets, the city is truly a character in its own right.

Overall, The Monocle is an entertaining and amusing ride that will leave audiences grinning from ear to ear. It is a masterpiece of French cinema, combining elements of mystery and comedy to create a unique and unforgettable viewing experience. If you're looking for a film that will make you laugh and keep you guessing until the very end, then The Monocle is definitely a movie you don't want to miss.

The Monocle is a 2009 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.