Casque d'Or (1952)

When a gangster's moll (Simone Signoret) falls in love with a reformed criminal (Serge Reggiani) now working as a carpenter, their romance incites an underworld rivalry that leads to tragedy. Directed by Jacques Becker (TOUCHEZ PAZ AU GRISBI), the film is an evocative representation of the Belle Epoque period (roughly between 1880 and 1914) as well as a heartbreaking love story. While the setting with its Apaches, ladies of the night and colorful dives are fascinating, it's the lovely romance between Signoret's prostitute and Reggiani's ex-con that holds our attention. Their love for each other is so palpable that it makes the tragic ending almost unendurable. For those who think of Signoret mostly for her post ROOM AT THE TOP career, her luscious beauty here is startling. She's sensual without even trying and you can see why Reggiani falls in love with her instantly (who wouldn't?). Shockingly, the film was a flop in France when first released although it was highly praised outside of France. Many years later the film was reissued in France where it was the success it should have been earlier. With Claude Dauphin and Raymond Bussieres.