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