Alain Delon was one of French cinema’s most iconic and enigmatic actors, known for his striking good looks, magnetic screen presence, and the ability to effortlessly portray both charm and menace. With a career spanning over six decades, Delon had become synonymous with a certain era of French filmmaking, particularly the thrillers and dramas of the 1960s and 1970s. For anyone looking to dive into his filmography, here’s a must-watch list of some of his most memorable performances.

1. Le Samouraï (1967)

Director: Jean-Pierre Melville Genre: Crime, Thriller

Le Samouraï is perhaps the quintessential Alain Delon film, where he plays Jef Costello, a stoic hitman who lives by a strict code of honor. Delon’s portrayal of the cool, detached assassin is nothing short of mesmerizing. The film’s minimalist style, combined with Delon’s icy performance, makes it a masterclass in suspense and mood. Jean-Pierre Melville’s direction perfectly complements Delon’s understated intensity, making Le Samouraï a timeless classic.

2. Plein Soleil (1960)

Director: René Clément Genre: Thriller, Drama

Before Anthony Minghella’s The Talented Mr. Ripley, there was Plein Soleil, the original adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s novel The Talented Mr. Ripley. Delon stars as Tom Ripley, a charming but ruthless young man who becomes embroiled in a web of deceit and murder. Delon’s performance as the seductive yet morally ambiguous Ripley helped establish his career and showcased his ability to play complex characters. The film’s sun-drenched Mediterranean setting provides a stark contrast to its dark narrative, making it a visually stunning and gripping thriller.

3. L’Eclisse (1962)

Director: Michelangelo Antonioni Genre: Drama, Romance

In L’Eclisse, Delon stars alongside Monica Vitti in this haunting exploration of alienation and emotional detachment. Directed by Michelangelo Antonioni, the film is a slow-burning study of modern relationships, set against the backdrop of Rome’s rapidly changing landscape. Delon’s role as a charming yet emotionally distant stockbroker is a perfect fit for his cool, enigmatic screen persona. L’Eclisse is a must-watch for those interested in the more existential, art-house side of Delon’s career.

4. Le Cercle Rouge (1970)

Director: Jean-Pierre Melville Genre: Crime, Thriller

Reuniting with Jean-Pierre Melville, Delon stars in Le Cercle Rouge as Corey, a recently released prisoner who plans a heist with two other criminals. The film is a taut, meticulously crafted crime thriller that delves into themes of fate, honor, and betrayal. Delon’s understated performance, combined with Melville’s precise direction, creates an atmosphere of inevitable doom. Le Cercle Rouge is considered one of the greatest heist films ever made, and Delon’s presence is central to its enduring appeal.

5. Rocco and His Brothers (1960)

Director: Luchino Visconti Genre: Drama

In this Italian classic directed by Luchino Visconti, Delon delivers a powerful performance as Rocco, a young man caught between family loyalty and personal desires. Rocco and His Brothers is a sweeping family saga that explores themes of poverty, migration, and the struggle for a better life. Delon’s portrayal of the sensitive and self-sacrificing Rocco is one of his most emotionally charged roles. The film’s epic scope and Visconti’s operatic direction make it a landmark in both Italian and French cinema.

6. La Piscine (1969)

Director: Jacques Deray Genre: Thriller, Drama

La Piscine is a sultry psychological drama set in the sun-soaked French Riviera. Delon stars opposite Romy Schneider, with whom he shares electric on-screen chemistry, as Jean-Paul, a writer whose idyllic vacation takes a dark turn when an old friend arrives with his daughter. The tension between the characters slowly simmers to a boiling point, leading to a shocking climax. Delon’s nuanced performance, capturing both charisma and underlying menace, is central to the film’s allure.

7. Le Clan des Siciliens (1969)

Director: Henri Verneuil Genre: Crime, Thriller

In this gripping crime thriller, Delon plays a jewel thief who joins forces with a Sicilian crime family to pull off an audacious heist. Le Clan des Siciliens is notable for its all-star cast, including Jean Gabin and Lino Ventura, and for its tense, suspenseful plot. Delon’s performance as the suave yet dangerous thief adds a layer of sophistication to the film, making it a standout in his filmography.

8. Mr. Klein (1976)

Director: Joseph Losey Genre: Drama, Thriller

In Mr. Klein, Delon takes on the role of Robert Klein, an art dealer in Nazi-occupied Paris who becomes the victim of mistaken identity. The film is a chilling exploration of identity, guilt, and the horrors of the Holocaust. Delon’s portrayal of a man caught in a Kafkaesque nightmare is both gripping and haunting, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Mr. Klein is a powerful and thought-provoking film that remains relevant today.

Conclusion: The Timeless Appeal of Alain Delon

Alain Delon’s filmography is a testament to his enduring appeal and his ability to inhabit a wide range of characters, from cold-blooded killers to conflicted heroes. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his work, these films offer a compelling introduction to the artistry and charisma that have made Delon a legend of French cinema. Each of these films not only highlights Delon’s extraordinary talent but also stands as a landmark in the history of French filmmaking.