The Rules of the Game

French master Jean Renoir delivered his definitive masterpiece with this scathing look at the French society before the beginning of World War II disguised as a comedy of manners. During an hunting party in the country, a group of upper class society and their servants get involved in a game of romantic entanglements that ends with a tragedy. All the characters are driven by their notion of love that justifies their actions towards each other and those around them causing pain and suffering. Brilliant written and directed by Renoir who also appears in a crucial role in the terrific ensemble. What remains impressive about this masterpiece is the fluidity of the camera that swirls around the many characters seamlessly without losing its focus on the story and themes which remains a towering achievement in the history of cinema. 1001 Films' coverage of films on DVD.