Detailed Summary
Gigot the Mute Janitor
Gigot (1962), directed by Gene Kelly, is a bittersweet comedy-drama written by Jackie Gleason. The story follows Gigot, a mute, kind-hearted janitor living in the Montmartre district of Paris. Gigot is mocked and ridiculed by the local children and townspeople for his silence and simple demeanor, yet he maintains a gentle, almost childlike view of the world.
The Encounter with Colette and Nicole
Gigot’s life changes when he crosses paths with Colette, a prostitute, and her young daughter Nicole. He witnesses the harshness of their lives and takes pity on them. Despite not being able to speak, Gigot offers them food, shelter, and kindness. For Nicole, who has grown up in instability, Gigot becomes a figure of safety and warmth, almost like a father figure.
Growing Bonds
As Gigot spends more time with Nicole, the two share tender moments of laughter and play. These scenes contrast starkly with the cruelty he receives from others. Colette, though at first wary, gradually sees Gigot’s goodness. However, her precarious lifestyle brings tension into their fragile makeshift family.
The Misunderstanding
The community around Gigot continues to misunderstand him, labeling him as strange and even dangerous. His inability to defend himself with words amplifies their prejudice. Colette’s association with him is also judged harshly. When Gigot tries to help, he is often mistaken for a fool or troublemaker, leading to disastrous misunderstandings.
Movie Ending
The film concludes on a profoundly tragic and moving note. Gigot attempts to shield Nicole from the cruelties of the world and dreams of a better life for her. However, circumstances spiral out of his control. He is caught in a storm while desperately trying to keep Nicole safe, but she is taken from him by the authorities who see him as unfit to care for a child.
In the final sequence, Gigot returns to the solitude of his life, rejected by the society that never understood him. Despite all his kindness, he is once again alone, silently bearing his pain. His muteness underscores the tragedy: he has so much love to give, yet no voice to defend himself or express it. The ending reinforces the themes of misunderstanding, loneliness, and the quiet dignity of kindness unrecognized by the world.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, Gigot does not include a post-credits scene. Like most films of its era, it ends once the story resolves, without any additional material after the credits.
Type of Movie
The film is a comedy-drama with tragic overtones, often described as a “tearjerker.” It mixes lighthearted moments of innocence with deeply emotional, melancholic themes.
Cast
- Jackie Gleason as Gigot
- Katherine Kath as Colette
- Gabrielle Dorziat as Mrs. Doyle
- Diane Gardner as Nicole
Film Music and Composer
The score was composed by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley, with Jackie Gleason himself also contributing to the film’s musical direction. The soundtrack complements the emotional highs and lows, with a whimsical but melancholic quality.
Filming Locations
The movie was filmed largely on location in Paris, France, particularly around Montmartre. The authenticity of Parisian streets adds atmosphere, grounding the story in a recognizable working-class environment that highlights Gigot’s marginalization.
Awards and Nominations
Gigot was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. It also received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. Although it didn’t win, these nominations recognized the film’s emotional depth and unique storytelling.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Jackie Gleason originally wrote the story and envisioned Charlie Chaplin playing Gigot, but Chaplin declined. Gleason then took on the role himself.
- Gene Kelly directed the film but had creative clashes with Gleason over tone and style.
- Gleason remained proud of the movie despite its lukewarm box office reception, considering it one of his most heartfelt works.
Inspirations and References
The film is heavily inspired by the tradition of silent film comedy-dramas, especially the works of Charlie Chaplin (such as City Lights and The Kid). The mute protagonist and blend of humor with tragedy are clear homages.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
There is little documentation of alternate endings, but Gleason’s original vision reportedly leaned even more into Chaplin-esque comedy before settling on the more tragic tone.
Book Adaptations and Differences
Gigot is not based on a book; it is an original story by Jackie Gleason.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Gigot sharing food with Nicole, showing his quiet but profound generosity.
- The storm sequence, where Gigot desperately protects Nicole.
- The final heartbreaking moment where Gigot is left alone once more.
Iconic Quotes
Because Gigot is mute, the film relies more on expressions and actions than dialogue. Nicole and Colette’s lines often emphasize their trust in him, but the most iconic “quotes” are essentially Gigot’s silent gestures of love and kindness.
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film pays subtle tribute to silent-era cinema, with physical comedy scenes staged in Chaplin and Keaton style.
- Gigot’s small attic is filled with simple objects, each symbolizing his isolation and longing for connection.
- Gleason’s love of music shows in the way Gigot interacts with instruments, a reflection of Gleason himself.
Trivia
- Jackie Gleason lost weight specifically for the role, wanting to look more sympathetic and vulnerable.
- The movie was one of the rare times Gleason stepped away from comedic roles into pure dramatic territory.
- Critics were divided, but the film gained a cult following over time for its sincerity.
Why Watch?
If you appreciate heartfelt stories in the tradition of Chaplin, Gigot is a hidden gem. It’s a film about misunderstood kindness, the cruelty of society, and the resilience of the human spirit. While it is melancholic, it leaves a lasting emotional impact.
Director’s Other Movies (Gene Kelly as Director)
- Invitation to the Dance (1956)
- Hello, Dolly! (1969)
- The Cheyenne Social Club (1970)
Recommended Films for Fans
- City Lights (1931)
- The Kid (1921)
- Marty (1955)
- The Elephant Man (1980)
