
Behind the Facade
Derrière la façade
Release: 1939-03-14·Runtime: 90m·★ 7.8
CrimeComedy
In the elevator of two large Parisian buildings, a telegraph operator discovers the body of an elderly woman, Madame Mathieu, the owner of both buildings. Boucheron, the local superintendent, is dispatched to investigate, along with his rival, Inspector Lambert of the "Sûreté". To solve the enigma, they scour staircases and corridors, visiting every floor of both buildings, courtyard and facade. Their gruff rivalry allows them to complement each other in discovering who committed the crime among a gallery of characters, humble or rich, who all have something to be ashamed of... A rare, fast-paced, picturesque comedy set against the backdrop of a police mystery.
Production Countries
France
Production Companies
Régina
Cast
Elvira Popescuas Mrs. Rameau, wife of an industrialist and mistress of Alfredo
Gabrielle Dorziatas Mrs. Bernier, wife of the President
Julien Caretteas Soldier, confined in the room of a “country”
Elmire Vautieras Marie, Lydia's dresser
Georges Beveras Taxi driver (uncredited)
Henri Nassietas (uncredited)
Jacques Dumesnilas Albert Durant, stockbroker and poker player
Paul Faivreas Concierge of the two buildings
Robert Ozanneas Brigadier
Jean Joffreas Mr. Martin, blind, father of Madeleine
Marguerite Morenoas Owner of the "Perroquet" and the festivities upstairs
Jean Daurandas Telegraphist who discovered the corpse
Michel Simonas Picking, knife-throwing artist
André Lefauras Mr. Corbeau, kleptomaniac
Gaby Sylviaas Madeleine Martin, in love with André
Andrexas André Laurent, bank cashier, lover of Madeleine
Claude Sainvalas Gaby's gigolo
Franck Mauriceas Agent (uncredited)
Lucien Barouxas Commissioner Boucheron, district police officer
Erich von Stroheimas Eric, German naturalized French
Aimé Clariondas Judge Bernier, President of the Court of Appeal
Robert Mooras Agent (uncredited)
Marcel Simonas Jules, government minister and Gaby's lover
Rivers Cadetas Agent (uncredited)
Jules Berryas Alfredo d'Avila, dancer of these ladies
Gaby Morlayas Gaby Valrose, minister's lover
Betty Stockfeldas English, Albert's companion, Eric's mistress
Jean Wieneras Pianist of the “Perroquet” (uncredited)
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