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