
Behind the Facade
Derrière la façade
Release: 1939-03-14·Runtime: 90m·★ 7.7
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
Gaby Morlayas Gaby Valrose, minister's lover
Gaby Sylviaas Madeleine Martin, in love with André
Andrexas André Laurent, bank cashier, lover of Madeleine
Erich von Stroheimas Eric, German naturalized French
Julien Caretteas Soldier, confined in the room of a “country”
Paul Faivreas Concierge of the two buildings
Jean Daurandas Telegraphist who discovered the corpse
Elmire Vautieras Marie, Lydia's dresser
Marcel Simonas Jules, government minister and Gaby's lover
Henri Nassietas (uncredited)
Jacques Baumeras Inspector Lambert of the Sûreté
Rivers Cadetas Agent (uncredited)
Michel Simonas Picking, knife-throwing artist
Betty Stockfeldas English, Albert's companion, Eric's mistress
Jean Joffreas Mr. Martin, blind, father of Madeleine
Franck Mauriceas Agent (uncredited)
Aimé Clariondas Judge Bernier, President of the Court of Appeal
Gabrielle Dorziatas Mrs. Bernier, wife of the President
Jean Wieneras Pianist of the “Perroquet” (uncredited)
Claude Sainvalas Gaby's gigolo
Jules Berryas Alfredo d'Avila, dancer of these ladies
André Lefauras Mr. Corbeau, kleptomaniac
Marguerite Morenoas Owner of the "Perroquet" and the festivities upstairs
Robert Ozanneas Brigadier
Lucien Barouxas Commissioner Boucheron, district police officer
Elvira Popescuas Mrs. Rameau, wife of an industrialist and mistress of Alfredo
Jacques Dumesnilas Albert Durant, stockbroker and poker player
Georges Beveras Taxi driver (uncredited)
Robert Mooras Agent (uncredited)
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