About French Connection II

French Connection II, released in 1975, is a gripping crime thriller that serves as the sequel to the 1971 film “The French Connection”. The movie continues the story of New York Police Department detective Jimmy 'Popeye' Doyle, as he is sent to Marseille to assist and take down the drug-smuggling operation he uncovered in the original film. However, things take a dramatically dark turn when he is kidnapped by the drug kingpin, Alain Charnier, leading to an intense and suspenseful chain of events.

Making / Production

This sequel was directed by John Frankenheimer and was produced by Robert L. Rosen. Shot in Marseille, France, the movie effectively captures the grittiness of the city and its underbelly.

Actors

• Gene Hackman - Plays the role of Detective Jimmy 'Popeye' Doyle with the same intensity and commitment as in the first installment. His character's journey in this sequel is harrowing.
• Bernard Fresson - Plays Henri Barthelemy, a French detective who assists Doyle. Fresson delivers an impressive performance, balancing the understanding and the tough exterior of his character.
• Fernando Rey - Reprises his role as the suave and ruthless drug kingpin, Alain Charnier. His portrayal further amplifies the cat-and-mouse tension of the film.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Despite being a sequel, it was crafted by a completely different team of filmmakers from the original. Different director, different screenwriters but with the same lead actor, Gene Hackman.
• Gene Hackman performed his own stunts during the harrowing withdrawal sequence.
• The film was mostly shot on location in Marseille, France.

Awards

While French Connection II did not receive any major awards, Gene Hackman's performance was widely acclaimed and is considered one of his most powerful.

Quotes

• “I'd rather be a lamppost in New York than the president of France, but you surrendered!” - Popeye Doyle
• “That's not a collar, that's an assassination.” - Henri Barthelemy to Popeye Doyle

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's score was composed by Don Ellis, adding a distinctly intense feeling to the film.
• "Going Home", an instrumental piece played in the film, stands out in the movie's soundtrack.