
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
Jacques Baumeras Inspector Lambert of the Sûreté
Betty Stockfeldas English, Albert's companion, Eric's mistress
Marguerite Morenoas Owner of the "Perroquet" and the festivities upstairs
Franck Mauriceas Agent (uncredited)
Paul Faivreas Concierge of the two buildings
Aimé Clariondas Judge Bernier, President of the Court of Appeal
Andrexas André Laurent, bank cashier, lover of Madeleine
Erich von Stroheimas Eric, German naturalized French
Rivers Cadetas Agent (uncredited)
Robert Mooras Agent (uncredited)
Jean Wieneras Pianist of the “Perroquet” (uncredited)
Elvira Popescuas Mrs. Rameau, wife of an industrialist and mistress of Alfredo
Michel Simonas Picking, knife-throwing artist
André Lefauras Mr. Corbeau, kleptomaniac
Georges Beveras Taxi driver (uncredited)
Henri Nassietas (uncredited)
Jules Berryas Alfredo d'Avila, dancer of these ladies
Gaby Morlayas Gaby Valrose, minister's lover
Gaby Sylviaas Madeleine Martin, in love with André
Jean Daurandas Telegraphist who discovered the corpse
Robert Ozanneas Brigadier
Jean Joffreas Mr. Martin, blind, father of Madeleine
Gabrielle Dorziatas Mrs. Bernier, wife of the President
Julien Caretteas Soldier, confined in the room of a “country”
Claude Sainvalas Gaby's gigolo
Jacques Dumesnilas Albert Durant, stockbroker and poker player
Elmire Vautieras Marie, Lydia's dresser
Marcel Simonas Jules, government minister and Gaby's lover
Lucien Barouxas Commissioner Boucheron, district police officer
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