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