Few actors can boast a resume like Jean Reno. The Spanish-born French actor turns 75 today and continues to be a benchmark in transalpine cinema, but not only. His charisma, talent and versatility have allowed him to appear in all corners of the world, from his homeland to Hollywood, with some forays into European productions, just remember our Girl in the Fog by Donato Carrisi.
Luc Besson’s fetish actor, Jean Reno has worked alongside some of the greatest filmmakers and shared the set with many international stars. As expected, his versatility has allowed him to explore different and far-flung territories: from auteur cinema to major international productions, from comedy to drama, from action to fantasy. Thanks to the birthday boy, let’s go and open it 7 best performances.
Le Grand Blue (1988)
Opening film at the 1988 Cannes Film Festival. “Le Grand Blue” Luc Besson gives one of the most beautiful interpretations of Jean Reno. The film tells the story of a long rivalry between two friends who are both passionate about diving, and Reno’s character is inspired by the Italian freediving champion Enzo Minorca. One of the most unusual works in Besson’s filmography, but also one of his highest grossing films.
Nikita (1990)
Again, the Besson-Renaud duo, still successful. Inspired by the lyrics of Elton John’s song of the same name, “Nikita“left a mark in the history of the action-packed thriller. The Casablanca-born actor spends little time on the big screen – about ten minutes – but leaves an indelible mark on the villainous exterminator.
Visitors (1993)
Another big box office success for Jean Reno was the fantastic comedy “Visitors” Jean-Marie Poire. Along with Christian Clavier, the actor plays a medieval knight catapulted to France in the 1990s. Here he shows his comic abilities, confirming his extraordinary plasticity.
Leon (1994)
“Leon– probably the most favorite film with Jean Reno. In an explosive mix of action and drama, he plays an Italian-American mafia-supported killer who decides to take care of little Matilda, played by Natalie Portman, the only survivor of her family, who was wiped out by a group led by a corrupt agent. Just great. It is worth noting the very ruthless Gary Oldman.
Purple Rivers (2000)
“Purple Rivers” marks the collaboration between Jean Reno and Mathieu Kassovitz, a mesmerizing thriller with a great cinematic script. The actor has proven himself to be a guarantee, and the film receives many international awards, including five nominations for the César Award and three nominations for the European Film Awards.
Empire of the Wolves (2005)
Based on the novel by Jean-Christophe Granget. “Empire of Wolves” Chris Nahon – amazing work. Between action and thriller, it boasts an excellent dose of tension. Here, Jean Reno takes on the role of a very peculiar police officer who is in conflict with a Turkish housewife.
Immortal (2010)
Attention: “Immortal” this is not about the catastrophe associated with the universe of “Gomorrah” with Ciro Di Marzio in the title role. Here we are talking about a film directed by Richard Berry, a thriller filmed between Turkey and France, inspired by the true story of Jackie Imbert, the godfather of the Marseille mafia. Great suspense and great acting rehearsals, starting with the inimitable Jean Reno.