Purple Noon

Directed by René Clément, 1960
PG-13; 118 minutes; French with English subtitles

“René Clément's subversive direction makes us root for [Alain] Delon to pull off a tricky tightrope disguise as suspicious police pursue him from hotel to apartment and town to town.” —Mike Clark, USA Today

The first film adaptation of author Patricia Highsmith’s 1955 novel The Talented Mr. Ripley, in Purple Noon Tom Ripley (Alain Delon) travels to Italy to visit his playboy friend Phillippe Greenleaf (Maurice Ronet) and Phillippe's new fiancée, Marge Duval (Marie Laforêt). What Phillippe doesn't know is that his father has paid Tom to convince his son to abandon Europe and return to his family responsibilities in San Francisco. But when Phillippe's family cuts off funding for Tom's extravagant lifestyle during his covert mission, he discovers another way to maintain his newfound standard of living.

The “My Favorite Films” series features tales of romance, humor, suspense, satire, and heroism with films since 1945. These films may hold special memories for you—no matter how many times you see them, they continue to draw you in once more. While many of these films are available through streaming, it's always more fun to see them in the theatre.

This July, join us as we explore the human condition and the intricacies of interpersonal relationships in this month’s film series.

Make a day of it at the Modern and include extra time to visit the galleries. Enjoy lunch in Café Modern and then settle in for an afternoon screening, or plan for a coffee break afterwards with fellow film enthusiasts.

Screenings are at 2 pm most Wednesdays in the auditorium. Tickets are $5 (FREE for Modern members) and are available at the Museum’s admission desk or online. Click here to purchase tickets online.