A prominent French film director, he was born on January 24, 1926, and became known for his work in comedy and crime genres. With a career spanning several decades, he directed numerous popular films, including the iconic "Les Tontons Flingueurs" (1963). His collaborations with screenwriter Michel Audiard were particularly celebrated, blending sharp dialogue with humor. His distinctive style and contribution to French cinema left a lasting impact until his passing in November 2013.