Le Trou (1960)

In the year 1947, beneath the grim shadows of La Santé Prison in Paris, an unexpected turn of events unfolds. New inmate, Claude Gaspard, finds himself thrust into a cell wherein reside four long-term detainees; Geo Cassine, Roland Darbant, Manu Borelli, and Vossellin, known as Monseigneur. Gaspard, initially an outsider in this bleak world, soon forms a bond with his four cell-mates, who, driven by desperation and a longing for freedom, gradually unveil their meticulously planned escape route from the prison's oppressive clutches. As Gaspard, drawn by the promise of liberty, joins their ambitious quartet, they embark on a daring mission, burrowing through the grimy underbelly of the prison's sewage system. Each stroke of their makeshift tools echoes their collective desire for liberation, and the tunnel becomes a tangible symbol of their impending freedom. However, on the day their plan is set to come to fruition, Gaspard is summoned to the warden's office, where he learns his wife has withdrawn her accusations against him. Gaspard spends two hours locked in conversation with the warden, and when he finally returns to his cell, his prolonged absence casts a shadow of doubt over his loyalties. The once united cell-mates find themselves grappling with suspicion and uncertainty. Can they trust this newcomer, who may no longer share their dire need for escape? As the clock ticks down, the imminent question remains: Will their meticulously crafted plan crumble under the weight of distrust, or will they manage to break free from the iron grip of La Santé Prison? The suspense is a thick fog that engulfs the viewer as they navigate through this grim tale of hope, camaraderie, and the quest for freedom.

Le Trou is a crime movie featuring Michel Constantin and directed by Jacques Becker.

Le Trou is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.