10 of Alain Delon’s Greatest Films, Revisited

In the wake of Alain Delon’s passing on Sunday at age 88, we find ourselves reflecting upon a cinematic giant who has left an indelible mark on film history. From his early appearances in the mid-1950s to his last bow in front of the camera, Delon captivated audiences with performances that blended charisma and complexity like no other actor of his time.

Introduction: A Legacy Left Behind

The French icon collaborated with some of cinema’s most illustrious directors—Luchino Visconti, Jean-Pierre Melville, René Clément—to name a few. His striking presence and nuanced portrayals inspired generations to follow.

1. Plein Soleil (1960)

Alain Delon’s career catapulted into the stratosphere with Plein Soleil, an adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s novel The Talented Mr. Ripley. As Tom Ripley, Delon embodied the quintessence of a suave yet sinister con artist—a role that would become synonymous with his career.

2. Rocco and His Brothers (1960)

In Visconti’s epic tale, Delon portrays Rocco Parondi, navigating through the tumultuous shifts from Southern Italy to Milan—a journey marked by familial strife and societal challenges.

3. The Leopard (1963)

This Palme d’Or-winning historical drama features Delon as Tancredi Falconeri, capturing the waning power of nobility in 19th century Sicily with a poise that remains timeless.

4. Le Samouraï (1967)

A masterpiece of suspense, Delon stars as Jef Costello—a lone hitman whose silent demeanor belies the depth of his character’s internal conflict and moral ambiguity.

5. La Piscine (1969)

This film is a tour de force in creating an atmosphere charged with sensuality and suspense, showcasing Delon amidst other iconic figures like Romy Schneider and Jane Birkin.

6. Borsalino (1970)

A tale of ambition and crime, Borsalino reunites French cinema’s dynamic duo—Delon and Jean-Paul Belmondo—as they navigate the dangerous world of Marseilles’ mob.

7. The Red Circle (1970)

In another Melville classic, Delon plays a criminal mastermind orchestrating an audacious jewel heist, showcasing his talent for portraying complex anti-heroes.

8. Un Flic (1972)

This gritty crime thriller has Delon in the role of a determined police chief pursuing a drug trafficker—a character study that reveals layers to Delon’s ability to convey intensity.

9. Indian Summer (1972)

In this Italian drama, Delon steps away from his usual roles to portray a literature professor caught in a poignant tale of unrequited love and self-discovery.

10. Mr. Klein (1976)

The film that earned Delon his first César nomination sees him as an art dealer during the Nazi occupation of France—a role reflecting his ability to convey a haunting ambivalence amidst historical turmoil.

Reflections on Style and Influence

Delon’s style was synonymous with sophistication, whether he played the charming villain or a conflicted hero. His performances often explored themes of identity, belonging, and morality—issues that continue to resonate in contemporary cinema.

• The elegance Delon brought to each role set a benchmark for male leads in international film.
• His work with auteurs such as Melville elevated the crime thriller genre to an art form.
• Delon’s legacy is not just in his iconic films but also in the inspiration he provides for actors today.

Conclusion: A Timeless Icon

The passing of Alain Delon marks the end of an era, yet his influence remains vividly alive. Through his greatest performances, we are reminded of the power of cinema to transcend time and culture—a testament to Delon’s enduring allure.