Le Jour Se Leve (1939)

After killing a dog trainer (Jules Berry), a working class man (Jean Gabin) sits barricaded in his room reflecting on the events which lead up to the murder while the police attempt to force him out of the room. Directed by Marcel Carne (LES ENFANTS DU PARADIS), this marvelous film is one of the great pieces of bleak cinematic poetry ever filmed. The consensus seems to be that CHILDREN OF PARADISE is Carne's masterpiece but I'll vote for this one. Despite it's darkness, it's an almost fragile piece of work. The emotional pull is perceptible but without manipulation. As the film begins with the killing, it prepares us for the tragedy that follows. Jules Berry as the corrupt dog trainer makes your skin crawl, he positively drips with a smiling malice. As the mistress of both men, Arletty makes for a bewitching presence while Jacqueline Laurent, also desired by both men, provides the only innocence in the film. Rich in atmosphere, this is one of the highpoints of French cinema! The excellent, delicate underscore is by Maurice Jaubert. Remade in the USA in 1947 with Henry Fonda in the Gabin role ..... as if!