Gabin became a star in the thirties, 'eloped' to the US during the war then made something of a glorious comeback in the fifties and went on to do some outstanding 'lion in winter' stuff such as Le Chat in which he gave as good as he got to another icon of French cinema Simone Signoret. Here he is cast as the matriarch of a powerful and influential family whose fortune is built on sugar. Despite their distinguished achievements - they have legions of honor like other families have second cars - they are a pretty despicable bunch. The son is not fit for purpose so far as running the business is concerned whilst the prospective son-in-law (Bernard Blier) is more than up to it. Add Pierre Brasseur to the mix and you have an outstanding cast recording the downfall of a proud and arrogant dynasty. Highly recommended.
Review of The Possessors
