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