Le Salaire de la peur par c1nephile

Here, we are presented with a cinematic masterpiece. The movie is divided into two parts: the first one sets the context and outlines the challenges. It takes place in a small city within a colonial setting where the sun shines intensely, laziness reigns, and the white men dominate the locals. This part effectively portrays the despair of the characters who feel they must accept their circumstances.

The second part is much stronger. We follow a truck convoy through the slush, enduring the scorching sun, petrol fumes, sweat, and overwhelming fear. They go through constant hardships, culminating in the inevitable tragedy of death.

The film’s true strength lies in how it captures the essence of its material. One can almost feel everything—the sweat, the sun’s intensity, the flesh, the scent of petrol, the rumbling sound of the earth as the trucks roll by, the mechanics of the trucks, the suspense when the bridge begins to collapse, and more. It truly immerses the audience in the reality of the story.

Undoubtedly, the camaraderie among the characters is touching, the direction of the film is inspired, the actors deliver compelling performances, and the ending is astonishing, especially for a movie from the 1950s.

A true masterpiece of cinema.