Starring Simone Signoret, Vera Clouzot, Paul Meurisse, Charles Vanel, Jean Brochard
Directed by H.G. Clouzot
(actor & director credits courtesy IMDB.com)
The cruelties and abuse committed by the headmaster of a boys school lead his wife and his mistress to conspire to murder him, but after the deed is done, his body disappears.
A landmark suspense film from France, the picture is a bonafide classic, featuring a taut script, fine direction, and good performances all around especially from Vera Clouzot, the wife of the director, in a difficult role as the guilt-ridden spouse of the headmaster. Friends Dan Day Jr. and Troy Howarth pointed out to me how influential the film has been with Troy alluding to the psychological thrillers written by Jimmy Sangster for Hammer Films as examples which reworked this movie's plot. Clouzot builds quality suspense through shadow and editing and some creepy imagery, with a climax that is unforgettable.
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