- Genre
- Thriller
- Year
- 1984
- Runtime
- 1h22
0
Kill the Referee
When passion turns deadly, the referee becomes the target.
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Synopsis
"Kill the Referee" (À mort l'arbitre !), directed by Jean-Pierre Mocky and released in 1984, is a tense French thriller that delves into the dark side of football fanaticism. The story follows an ordinary referee who becomes the target of violent soccer fans enraged after a controversial decision during a crucial match. As the mob grows increasingly dangerous, the referee faces life-threatening situations that question the boundaries of sportsmanship and fanaticism. Michel Serrault delivers a captivating performance as the beleaguered official, capturing the mounting fear and desperation of a man caught in a violent frenzy. The film combines suspense and social commentary, exploring themes of obsession, mob mentality, and the brutal consequences of sports hatred.
Cast
Reviews
"Kill the Referee" holds a specific place in French cinema as a sharp critique of sports fanaticism and its potential for violence. Critics have had mixed reactions to the film. On IMDb, the film holds a modest rating of 6.1/10, reflecting a range of audience opinions. Some praise the film for its intense atmosphere and Michel Serrault's compelling portrayal of a man trapped in escalating danger. The tension is well-executed, and the movie is noted for its unflinching look at the extremities of football culture. However, some reviewers feel that its pacing and dramatic style might feel dated or overly theatrical to contemporary audiences. According to retrospective reviews, while "Kill the Referee" may not be a universally acclaimed classic, it provides an engaging and thought-provoking narrative with a biting social message about violence and fanaticism in sport. Rotten Tomatoes does not list a Tomatometer score for this title, indicating limited mainstream critical aggregation, but film enthusiasts appreciate it for its social commentary and dramatic tension.
