Cast
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Jean-Paul Belmondo
as François Holin, aka Ho
Joanna Shimkus
as Bénédicte
Raymond Bussières
as Robert
Paul Crauchet
as Georges Briand
Stéphane Fey
as Schwartz junior
Alain Mottet
as Paul
Tony Taffin
as L'aîné des Schwartz
André Weber
as La Praline
Jean-Pierre Bertrand
as Bogie
Ermanno Casanova
as Un détenu
Jackie Sardou
as Mado
Stan Dylik
as Un détenu
Corinne Gorse
as Une femme a la banque
Bob Ingarao
as Schneider
Jacques Lalande
as Bank Employee
Crew
Director
- Robert Enrico
Writer
- Lucienne Hamon
- Pierre Pelegri
- Robert Enrico
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Ho! 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 Robert Enrico 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 1968, 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 Ho! took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 103 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 66 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The costume department created over 325 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1968, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Ho! shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Blue Story, which focuses more on action than character development, Ho! subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Borsalino and They Paid with Bullets: Chicago 1929 explore similar territory, Ho! 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: November 4, 1968
- Runtime: 1h 43m
