Prolific writer Georges Simenon has understandably been a fertile source for film-makers and this is the third film directed by Henri Decoin based upon one of his novels.
This is indisputably one of this directors most accomplished films and provides strong roles for two of France's finest, Jean Gabin and Danielle Darrieux, formerly married to Decoin.
By means of flashbacks this harsh and cynical piece chronicles a marriage that is doomed from the outset as Bébé has married for love whilst Francois has done so for convenience. He continues to have mistresses most of whom are cheating on their husbands. The couple have a child that proves to be no compensation to her and in order to end her unhappiness she resorts to drastic measures. Even though Francois reveals his true feelings for her it is too late for them both........ One of Simenon's strengths is of course his acute psychological penetration which raises this story above the level of 'pure melodrama'. The performances are splendid and one is especially impressed with Gabin who excels as a thoroughly detestable character whose 'redemption' at the end would be risible in the hands of a lesser actor. The transformation of Bébé from joyous young bride to embittered wife is beautifully depicted by Mlle Darrieux. Mention must also be made of Grand Dame Gabrielle Dorziat as a society 'matchmaker'.
Superlative production values, fabulous cinematography by Léonce-Henri Burel and a haunting score by Jean-Jacques Grunenwald all contribute to a film that is both classy and first class.
This is indisputably one of this directors most accomplished films and provides strong roles for two of France's finest, Jean Gabin and Danielle Darrieux, formerly married to Decoin.
By means of flashbacks this harsh and cynical piece chronicles a marriage that is doomed from the outset as Bébé has married for love whilst Francois has done so for convenience. He continues to have mistresses most of whom are cheating on their husbands. The couple have a child that proves to be no compensation to her and in order to end her unhappiness she resorts to drastic measures. Even though Francois reveals his true feelings for her it is too late for them both........ One of Simenon's strengths is of course his acute psychological penetration which raises this story above the level of 'pure melodrama'. The performances are splendid and one is especially impressed with Gabin who excels as a thoroughly detestable character whose 'redemption' at the end would be risible in the hands of a lesser actor. The transformation of Bébé from joyous young bride to embittered wife is beautifully depicted by Mlle Darrieux. Mention must also be made of Grand Dame Gabrielle Dorziat as a society 'matchmaker'.
Superlative production values, fabulous cinematography by Léonce-Henri Burel and a haunting score by Jean-Jacques Grunenwald all contribute to a film that is both classy and first class.