Jean-Pierre Melville facts for kids

Jean-Pierre Melville (born Jean-Pierre Grumbach; 20 October 1917 – 2 August 1973) was a famous French filmmaker and actor. He is known for making exciting crime movies.

He became very well known for his noir movies. These are often dark and stylish films about crime and mystery. Some of his most famous noir movies include Le Doulos (1962), Le Samouraï (1967), and Le Cercle rouge (1970).

Who Was Jean-Pierre Melville?

Jean-Pierre Grumbach was born in Paris, France, on October 20, 1917. He later changed his name to Melville. He chose this name as a tribute to the American writer Herman Melville.

He was a very important person in French cinema. He worked as a film director and a screenwriter. This means he was in charge of making movies and writing their stories. He also sometimes acted in films.

Melville's Movie Style

Jean-Pierre Melville was famous for his unique style. His movies often featured cool, quiet characters. These characters were usually involved in crime stories. His films had a very specific look and feel. They were often dark and serious, with a lot of suspense.

He liked to show characters who followed their own strict rules. Even if they were criminals, they often had a strong sense of honor. This made his movies very interesting and different.

Famous Films

Melville directed many movies during his career. Here are some of his most well-known works:

• Le Doulos (1962): This is a crime film about a police informant. It's known for its twists and turns.
• Le Samouraï (1967): This movie stars Alain Delon as a hitman. It's famous for its quiet hero and stylish scenes. Many people think it's one of the best crime films ever made.
• Le Cercle rouge (1970): This film is about a group of criminals planning a big heist. It's known for its detailed planning and suspenseful moments.
• Army of Shadows (1969): This movie is different from his usual crime films. It tells the story of the French Resistance during World War II. It shows the bravery and dangers faced by those fighting against the occupation.

Melville often wrote the screenplays for his own films. This allowed him to have full control over the story and characters. He also sometimes helped with other parts of filmmaking, like editing or even acting.

Melville's Impact

Jean-Pierre Melville passed away on August 2, 1973, in Paris. He died from a Stroke.

His movies have had a big impact on other filmmakers around the world. Many directors have been inspired by his unique style. He helped shape the way crime films are made. His work is still studied and enjoyed by movie fans today. He is remembered as a master of the crime genre.

Images for kids

• 

  Melville's tomb in the Parisian cemetery of Pantin

See also

In Spanish: Jean-Pierre Melville para niños