The Master of French Comedy
Detailed analysis, quotes, and special images of the unforgettable characters played by Louis de Funès.
Le Gendarme de Saint-Tropez Series
The disciplined, ambitious, and equally clumsy sergeant of Saint-Tropez. He is extremely respectful towards his superiors and quite harsh towards his subordinates. Walking the fine line between an authority figure and comedy, this character earned Louis de Funès worldwide recognition.
"Garde à vous! (Attention!)"
"Foutez-moi le camp! (Get out of here!)"
"C'est un scandale! (It's a scandal!)"
Les Aventures de Rabbi Jacob (1973)
A conservative, prejudiced, and grumpy French businessman. As a result of a series of unfortunate events, he is forced to disguise himself as a rabbi. The transformation he undergoes and the breakdown of his prejudices throughout the film, combined with Louis de Funès' amazing facial expressions, created one of the most powerful characters in cinema history.
"Comment, il est noir?! (What, he's black?!)"
"Mazel Tov!" (While disguised as a rabbi)
La Grande Vadrouille (1966)
The arrogant and meticulous conductor of the Paris Opera. During World War II, he is unintentionally forced to save a British pilot. His contrast with the character of Augustin, played by Bourvil, formed one of the most successful duos in French cinema. Lefort's irritable nature in every situation and his perfectionism are unforgettable.
"Y'a pas de hélice, hélas! C'est là qu'est l'os!" (There's no propeller, alas! That's the problem!)
"C'était pas mauvais, c'était très mauvais!" (It wasn't bad, it was very bad!)