Farewell, Friend
Plot
Farewell, Friend is a 1994 adventure drama film that follows the story of two former comrades-in-arms, Jack (played by Jeff Kober) and Martin (played by Michael Paré), who served together in the French Foreign Legion. After their military service, they go their separate ways, with Jack pursuing a life of solitude as a mercenary, while Martin becomes a doctor. Years later, fate reunites them when Jack shows up at Martin's clinic in need of medical attention. As they catch up on each other's lives, they're approached by a mysterious figure who presents them with an opportunity to make a fortune by participating in a daring heist. The plan involves stealing millions from a wealthy industrialist, and the two men are promised a share of the loot if they successfully carry out the caper. Initially hesitant, Jack is convinced by Martin's enthusiasm and the promise of financial gain. They assemble a team of experts, including a charming thief (played by Paul Levesque) and a skilled getaway driver (played by Jennifer Gareis). As the team prepares for the big score, tensions rise as they face internal conflicts and external obstacles. Meanwhile, the industrialist, revealed to be a ruthless and cunning individual, will stop at nothing to protect his fortune. The film builds up to an action-packed climax as Jack and Martin lead their team in the daring heist. With clever strategies and quick reflexes, they navigate the complex plan, but not without unexpected twists and turns that test their skills and loyalty to each other. Throughout the adventure, Farewell, Friend explores themes of friendship, redemption, and personal growth as Jack and Martin confront their pasts and work towards a brighter future. With its blend of action, suspense, and humor, this film is an entertaining ride for fans of buddy movies and heist thrillers.
Reviews
Mason
Two men, stark naked, confined in a dark room for three days and nights. Even under torture, they stubbornly refuse to reveal their story to the world. A failure of prisoner's dilemma. 143 (8
Quinn
If this film is really going to be remade by John Woo as rumored, it will be its misfortune...
Kamila
Their chemistry is so perfect, it's enviable! With a partner like that, you'd face hell or high water together, no question!
Bradley
"Elevator to the Gallows" meets male camaraderie.
Joseph
As expected from a screenwriter-turned-director, the film possesses a strong literary quality. The narrative unfolds with a poetic touch, reminiscent of a French take on Gu Long's wuxia style. Within the framework of a genre film, the plot threads, events, and relationships feel alluded to rather than explicitly stated. However, the central male bonding is compelling. Judging by its execution, it's a thoroughly enjoyable male-centric film. Two men, with similar pasts yet distinctly different personalities, find themselves in a dynamic of hatred and mutual support. Neither the authority of the state nor romantic entanglements can disrupt their unspoken understanding. The director's skillful visualization of this "惺惺相惜" (mutual appreciation) is a major strength of the film. This impenetrable "默契" (tacit understanding) between the men doesn't stem from psychological analysis...
Ivy
A gritty and action-packed buddy film, Farewell, Friend brings together two former French Foreign Legionnaires for a thrilling adventure. Alain Delon and Charles Bronson deliver strong performances as the charismatic mercenary and doctor duo, whose complicated past is rekindled through a high-stakes heist. The film's direction masterfully weaves together elements of drama and suspense, culminating in a tense and memorable finale that solidifies this 1968 film as an enduring classic in the crime-thriller genre.
