Summary
After the death of his parents, a young man named Gilles Mauvoisin returns to their town
of origin in France. Shortly after his arrival, he learns that his uncle, a wealthy
business man, has just died and has left his fortune to him. Gilles also inherits
a curious puzzle: if he can crack the combination of his uncle’s safe, he will be even
better off. However, he encounters hostility from members of a strange "syndicate"
which includes several important figures in the community who resent his unexpected return.
Then it is discovered that Gilles’ uncle was murdered...
Review
This is an early example of the kind of thriller-mystery, or "polar", which would become
phenomenally popular in France during the 1950s. It is also one of the earliest
adaptations of a novel by the popular thriller writer Georges Simenon, whose works would
be frequently adapted by French filmmakers in the following decades.
This film, made at the
time of the Nazi occupation of France, bears some of the characteristics of classic film
noir: an intriguing plot, a bizarre bunch of characters, atmospheric photography.
Two faces to watch out
for a very young Jean Desailly and Serge Reggiani, two actors who would become very prominent
in French cinema throughout the following two decades. They are joined by a characteristically
whimsical Jules Berry, who exudes venom and charm in equal measure, and a formidable Gabrielle
Dorziat, who plays Gilles’ embittered Aunt.
© James Travers 2000
|
