Les Biches (1968)

Though director Claude Chabrol may have mastered suspense in his other films, Les Biches is an unhurried psychological drama with very little tension. Starring his sometimes wife and frequent leading lady Stéphane Audran as the rich and bored Frédérique, the story features a typical love triangle that none of the characters seem to be very emotionally involved in. The street artist Why (Jacqueline Sassard) appears to be just as beautiful and chic as her upscale company, and as the third wheel, Paul (Jean-Louis Trintignant) doesn't exude enough charm to pose any threat. As one of the director's investigations into the pit of French bourgeois decadence (Les Cousins was another), it does reveal the wealthy socialites to be empty, soulless creatures, but it doesn't make them very interesting. Though critically favored at its 1968 release, it may appear dated and slow to contemporary audiences, and those expecting sensational thrills implied by the various titles will be disappointed by the lack of passion. However, viewers who are familiar with Chabrol's more personal dramas, or those who have an affinity for Audran's icy screen sirens, will appreciate the subtleties in this deliberate drama. ~ Andrea LeVasseur, All Movie Guide