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