The Breach

Based on Charlotte Armstrong’s 1968 novel The Balloon Man, La Rupture (1970) is a psychological thriller centered on a working-class woman, Hélène (Stéphane Audran), trapped in a toxic marriage to a violent and abusive husband. As Hélène attempts to protect her son and secure their freedom, she uncovers a dark conspiracy involving her husband’s wealthy and manipulative family. Who can Hélène trust at the boarding house where she took shelter? Chabrol’s suspenseful direction highlights Hélène’s relentless struggle against an oppressive system. Through its chilling, eerie narrative and nuanced performances, La Rupture explores themes of betrayal, class, and psychological manipulation. It is one of Chabrol’s most subtle and underrated films.