The Mask of the Gorilla 1958
When hardened criminal Géo Paquet, known as The Gorilla, escapes from prison, he steps back into a world of high-stakes intrigue and shadowy espionage.
Director: Bernard Borderie
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Mask of the Gorilla (1958) about?
The film follows Géo Paquet, a notorious criminal known as The Gorilla, who breaks out of prison and is recruited to infiltrate a dangerous gang operating under the protection of a foreign embassy. His mission? To uncover a spy who enjoys diplomatic immunity, leaving the police powerless to act.
Who directed The Mask of the Gorilla?
The Mask of the Gorilla was directed by Bernard Borderie, a filmmaker known for his work in crime and action dramas during the mid-20th century.
Who stars in The Mask of the Gorilla?
The lead roles are played by Lino Ventura, Charles Vanel, and Pierre Dux, with supporting performances from Bella Darvi, René Lefèvre, and Robert Manuel.
Is The Mask of the Gorilla (1958) worth watching?
As a mid-century French action-drama, it offers a compelling mix of suspense and espionage, anchored by Lino Ventura's magnetic performance. While not as widely known today, its gritty atmosphere and Cold War themes make it a compelling watch for fans of vintage crime thrillers.
How long is The Mask of the Gorilla?
The Mask of the Gorilla (1958) has a runtime of 105 minutes.
About The Mask of the Gorilla (1958) — A 1950s French Crime Thriller with Lino Ventura
When hardened criminal Géo Paquet, known as The Gorilla, escapes from prison, he steps back into a world of high-stakes intrigue and shadowy espionage. Tasked with penetrating a ruthless gang operating under the protection of a foreign embassy, Paquet must use every ounce of cunning to expose a spy who wields diplomatic immunity like a shield. Director Bernard Borderie crafts a tense, atmospheric thriller where betrayal lurks around every corner and the line between law enforcement and outlaw blurs in the neon-lit underworld of 1958 Paris.
The Mask of the Gorilla (1958) blends gritty crime drama with pulse-pounding action, delivering a story of vengeance and redemption as Paquet balances his past as a convict with his new role as an undercover operative. With a gripping narrative that pits a lone agent against an untouchable enemy, this French classic offers a fascinating glimpse into Cold War-era espionage and the moral complexities of justice. Lino Ventura's charismatic performance as the titular Gorilla anchors this stylish, suspense-filled tale, making it a standout in the action-drama genre.