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