The Gendarme in New York (1965) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Gendarme in New York (Le Gendarme à New York) is a delightful French-Italian comedy directed by Jean Girault, featuring the legendary French actor Louis de Funès as the beloved character Ludovic Cruchot. This sequel to the successful film The Troops of St. Tropez (Le Gendarme de St. Tropez) follows Cruchot and his fellow gendarmes on an amusing adventure to New York City. The film’s mix of slapstick humor, cultural misunderstandings, and the iconic performance of de Funès has made it a timeless classic in French cinema.
In this review, we’ll explore the plot, comedic elements, the cast’s performances, and where you can stream or rent The Gendarme in New York in the U.S.
Plot Summary
The Gendarme in New York continues the misadventures of Ludovic Cruchot and his colleagues from the Saint-Tropez gendarmerie. This time, the team is invited to participate in an international police convention in New York City, which leads to a series of humorous mishaps. Cruchot’s daughter, Nicole (played by Geneviève Grad), sneaks aboard the ship heading to New York, causing further chaos as Cruchot tries to keep her presence hidden while navigating the complexities of big-city life in America.
Throughout the film, Cruchot and his team struggle with the language barrier, cultural differences, and the overwhelming scale of New York. Their misadventures include a hilarious attempt to catch up with American customs, mistaken identities, and Cruchot’s relentless efforts to prevent his daughter from being discovered in the foreign city.
The film’s humor lies largely in Cruchot’s over-the-top reactions and de Funès’ expert comic timing. Whether he’s navigating the complexities of New York or trying to balance his duties as a gendarme with protecting his daughter, Cruchot’s antics are both heartwarming and hilarious.
Louis de Funès’ Iconic Performance
Louis de Funès is at the heart of what makes The Gendarme in New York so memorable. His impeccable ability to combine physical comedy with exaggerated facial expressions and frenetic energy makes him the driving force of the film. De Funès was known for his skill in turning everyday situations into comedic spectacles, and this film is no exception.
As Ludovic Cruchot, de Funès shines in scenes where he navigates the unfamiliar territory of New York City, from struggling with the English language to misunderstanding American customs. His comedic prowess elevates the film beyond a simple sequel, making it a standout in the Gendarme series.
Supporting Cast
While de Funès steals the show, the supporting cast also contributes to the film’s charm. Geneviève Grad as Nicole adds a layer of emotional depth to the comedy, as her father-daughter relationship with Cruchot serves as a key element of the story. Her rebellious yet loving character balances Cruchot’s overbearing personality, creating humorous and tender moments.
The ensemble cast of gendarmes, including Michel Galabru as Jérôme Gerber, also brings their own comedic flair to the film. Their interactions with the American police officers and their adventures around New York provide plenty of laughs, especially as they try to adapt to the hustle and bustle of the city.
Comedy and Cultural Clashes
A significant part of the film’s humor comes from the cultural clashes between the French gendarmes and their American counterparts. The language barrier leads to a series of misunderstandings and absurd situations that amplify the film’s comedic tone. The gendarmes’ confusion with American customs, from food to etiquette, creates plenty of laugh-out-loud moments.
New York City itself becomes a character in the film, with the bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and fast-paced lifestyle providing a stark contrast to the slower, more laid-back life of Saint-Tropez. The visual comedy of the gendarmes trying to navigate this new world adds to the film’s charm.
Visuals and Direction
Director Jean Girault brings a lighthearted and whimsical touch to the film, keeping the pacing fast and the humor fresh. The decision to film on location in New York City adds authenticity and excitement to the narrative. The contrast between the small-town gendarmes and the grandeur of New York enhances the comedic tension, with Girault capturing the charm of the city while emphasizing the gendarmes’ bewilderment.
Where to Watch The Gendarme in New York (1965) Online
Although The Gendarme in New York may not be as readily available on mainstream streaming services in the U.S. as newer films, there are still a few ways you can watch this French classic online.
1. Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video offers The Gendarme in New York for rental or purchase. Rental prices typically start at $3.99, and you can buy it for around $9.99. Amazon Prime is available across multiple devices, including smart TVs, smartphones, and tablets, making it easy to stream the film.
2. Apple TV (iTunes)
Apple TV has The Gendarme in New York available for rent and purchase, with similar pricing to Amazon Prime. You can rent it for $3.99 or buy it for around $9.99, and the film can be accessed on any Apple device or via the Apple TV app.
3. Google Play Movies & YouTube
Both Google Play Movies and YouTube offer The Gendarme in New York for rental and purchase, starting at $3.99 for rentals and $9.99 for purchase. These platforms are widely accessible on various devices, including smartphones, laptops, and smart TVs, making them convenient options for watching the film.
4. Vudu
Vudu is another platform where you can rent or buy The Gendarme in New York. Rentals typically start at $3.99, and you can purchase the film for around $9.99. Vudu provides a high-quality streaming experience and is accessible on many streaming devices.
Conclusion: Is The Gendarme in New York Worth Watching?
The Gendarme in New York is a delightful and entertaining comedy that showcases Louis de Funès at his comedic best. The film’s blend of slapstick humor, cultural misunderstandings, and heartwarming moments makes it a timeless classic. It appeals not only to fans of French cinema but to anyone looking for a lighthearted, family-friendly comedy.
Whether you’re a fan of the Gendarme series or new to the antics of Ludovic Cruchot, The Gendarme in New York offers a fun and engaging watch. Thanks to its availability on various streaming platforms, it’s easy to enjoy this classic comedy from the comfort of your home.
