The Gendarme and the Gendarmettes

This entry focuses on the integration of four young female police officers into the traditional gendarmerie, triggering comedic chaos and rivalry. The plot thickens as the team faces the unexpected challenge of their female colleagues being kidnapped, blending humor with light suspense. The film retains the series’ hallmark of situational comedy involving disguises, misunderstandings, and social satire.

Tony Aboyantz took over directing duties after the passing of Jean Girault, who had helmed the previous films. Louis de Funès remains the central figure, supported by Michel Galabru and other returning cast members. Their performances maintain the dynamic that made the franchise popular, balancing physical comedy and character-driven humor.

Collectors often seek this film as part of the complete Le Gendarme de Saint-Tropez Collection due to its place in the series’ chronology and its representation of early 1980s French comedy cinema. It was produced by Société Nouvelle de Cinématographie and SND, reflecting French film production trends of the era. The movie was released on various physical formats including VHS, DVD, and Blu-ray, catering to fans of classic European comedies.

The film’s setting in Saint-Tropez showcases the scenic French Riviera, adding visual appeal beyond the comedic narrative. The inclusion of themes such as modernization of the police force and the introduction of female officers offers a cultural snapshot of the period. Collectors interested in genre evolution and franchise development appreciate this installment for these contextual layers as well as its continuity in a long-running series.