Cast
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Stéphane Audran
as Dominique
Klaus Kinski
as Pavel Richko / Torpédo I
Lilli Palmer
as Helen
Michel Constantin
as Coster
Angelo Infanti
as Jean / Gianni
Jean Claudio
as Fédor 'La Filature'
Frédéric de Pasquale
as Nicolas Baslier Krestowitz
Noëlle Adam
as Laurence, Dominique's friend
Philippe March
as The effeminate salesman
Christine Fabréga
as Sylvianne Collet
Jacques Harden
as The Paris police inspector
Micheline Luccioni
as The postal worker
Georges Lycan
as Torpédo II
Philippine Pascal
as The policewoman
Bernard Musson
as Fécamp police inspector
Crew
Director
- Jean Delannoy
Producer
- Piero La Mantia
- Turi Vasile
- Luggi Waldleitner
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Only the Cool examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Jean Delannoy brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1970, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Only the Cool took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 165 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 75 unique compositions.
- The film contains approximately 1306 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1970, when this film was released:
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Only the Cool shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Mystery Ship, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Only the Cool subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Killer Likes Candy and The Exterminators explore similar territory, Only the Cool stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: June 3, 1970
- Runtime: 1h 50m
