Claude Sautet - Max Et Les Ferrailleurs (1971) Apr 2026

The film explores the "policeman’s paradox." Max is so obsessed with the law that he becomes a criminal mastermind to uphold it, blurring the line between the protector and the predator.

While often overshadowed by the films of Jean-Pierre Melville, Max et les ferrailleurs is arguably more psychologically complex. It isn't just about a heist; it’s a character study of a man who destroys everything he touches because he cannot endure the "untidiness" of human nature. Claude Sautet - Max et les ferrailleurs (1971)

He targets a group of petty, disorganized scrap-metal thieves (the ferrailleurs ) led by an old acquaintance, Abel (Bernard Fregier). Max goes undercover, encouraging them to rob a bank while simultaneously manipulating Abel's girlfriend, Lily (Romy Schneider), into falling for him to ensure the trap is perfectly set. Key Themes & Style The film explores the "policeman’s paradox