The Crime of Ovide Plouffe

Synopsis

The Crime of Ovide Plouffe (Le crime d'Ovide Plouffe) is a 1984 Canadian drama directed by Denys Arcand, adapted from Roger Lemelin's novel. The film follows Ovide Plouffe, a man who finds himself ensnared in a web of suspicion and societal pressures that challenge his integrity and resilience. Set in post-war Quebec, the story explores themes of family, justice, and human frailty, offering an intimate glimpse into the struggles of ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances. Gabriel Arcand delivers a compelling performance as Ovide, anchoring a narrative that intertwines personal drama with social commentary. The movie captures the period’s atmosphere while probing the moral questions behind crime and punishment.

Cast

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  Gabriel Arcand

  Ovide Plouffe

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  Anne Létourneau

  Rita Plouffe

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  Pierre Curzi

  Napoléon Plouffe

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  Jean Carmet

  Pacifique Berthet

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  Serge Dupire

  Guillaume Plouffe

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  Donald Pilon

  Stan Labrie

Reviews

Critical reception of The Crime of Ovide Plouffe has been mixed but generally positive. On IMDb, the movie holds a rating of approximately 6.9/10, reflecting a moderately favorable audience response appreciating its strong performances and thematic depth. Critics have praised Gabriel Arcand's portrayal of the titular character, highlighting his ability to convey complexity and vulnerability. The film's direction by Denys Arcand is often noted for its atmospheric recreation of 1940s Quebec and its careful character study amid broader social issues. However, some reviews, including those summarized on Rotten Tomatoes, point out a slow narrative pace and a sometimes overly meticulous focus on detail that may not appeal to all viewers. Metacritic scores are limited for this title due to its age and regional release, but the consensus among critics leans toward valuing the film for its cultural significance and dramatic intensity, despite occasional narrative unevenness. Summary: The Crime of Ovide Plouffe is lauded for its character depth and period authenticity but can be perceived as slow-paced by modern audiences.