A sardonic gangster's loyalty tests the boundaries of Marseilles' underworld from the 1930s through WWII.
THE PARIAH
For more than 15 years, two Marseille friends and criminals battle the law, rival gangs, prison authorities and even mined beaches in order to survive.
Quick Answer
The Pariah is a 1972 Italian-French crime drama directed by José Giovanni about Roberto Borgo, a loyal and deadly gangster in Marseilles, whose devotion to his friends and criminal code leads him through battles with the law, rival gangs, and the aftermath of war.
Programmer's Pick
Jean-Paul Belmondo smolders as a gangster who’s as loyal as he is lethal, trading shootouts for sappers and casinos for camaraderie. If you like your period crime dramas with a side of existential detachment and a dash of Marseilles grit, this episodic plunge into the French underworld delivers.
— SassyFlix Programmer
Overview
Why This Matters
This film is notable as a remake of the 1961 adaptation of José Giovanni's novel, with Jean Paul Belmondo reprising his role from the earlier version, and is directed by Giovanni himself, adapting his own work.
Cast & Crew
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Why Cult
Jean-Paul Belmondo brings sardonic cool and deadly loyalty to life as Roberto Borgo, anchoring the film with his charismatic presence.
The film immerses viewers in the Marseilles criminal scene of the 1930s and 1940s, complete with gang warfare, casinos, and backroom deals.
At its core, the story is a study in friendship and loyalty, as Roberto risks everything to protect his friend Xavier against the odds.
The film ventures beyond typical gangster fare, sending its characters into the dangerous world of landmine removal during World War II.
Scene Gallery
Threat File
Questions from the Vault
Who directed The Pariah? +
The Pariah was directed by José Giovanni.
How long is The Pariah? +
The Pariah has a runtime of 102 minutes.
What genre is The Pariah? +
The Pariah is a crime, drama, and mystery film.
When was The Pariah released? +
The Pariah was released in 1972.
