Journey into Popular Cinema with Michel Simon, Simone Signoret and Ginette Leclerc

Pathé continues to explore its impressive film library by releasing on DVD/Blu-ray three restored films that were successful in theaters but have since been rarely shown and largely forgotten. The late discovery of “L’Auberge du Péché,” “Monsieur Taxi,” and “Les Mauvais Coups” is quite intriguing.

Filmed in a village in Burgundy, “L’Auberge du Péché” (1949) is the final film by Jean de Marguenat, a director of 14 feature films that have completely gone under the radar of cinephiles. The movie, which blends film noir, crime drama, burlesque, and dark comedy, is somewhat puzzling, reminiscent of Chabrol in its criticism of hypocrisy and malice in a closed microcosm. A gangster on the run entrusts a bag of cash to a waitress at a restaurant, played by Ginette Leclerc, a major star of the era. The storyline unfolds with various characters trying to retrieve the money, putting the young woman in danger. Despite its somewhat odd appearance, “L’Auberge du Péché” shines through its talented actors who seem to thoroughly enjoy their roles. Ginette Leclerc, in a dual role as the voluptuous waitress and her much more reserved sister, brightens up a rather dark world. Jean-Pierre Kérien, a now forgotten actor, displays sharp wit and biting irony as a vacationing cop turned accidental investigator. The film also features intriguing supporting characters typical of French cinema at the time.

“Monsieur Taxi” (1952) by André Hunebelle is another example of post-war popular cinema. Michel Simon stars as a grumpy but tender taxi driver observing a close-knit family and the shady world around him. The stolen money storyline remains central to the plot, but the film primarily showcases a picturesque Paris inhabited by colorful characters portrayed by lively supporting actors. Among them are Jean Carmet, portraying a charmingly awkward future son-in-law florist, and Louis de Funès in a hilarious cameo as a bumbling Sunday painter. Directed by André Hunebelle long before his better-known works, “Monsieur Taxi” is a lively comedy that warms the heart.

“The Mauvais Coups” (1961) is François Leterrier’s directorial debut, a precursor to films like “Private Club” and “I’m Going to Crack.” Adapted from a novel by Roger Vailland, the film depicts the gradual breakdown of a couple in a large Burgundian country house. Mr. recalls his past racing glory, while Mrs. seeks solace in alcohol and gambling. The arrival of a beautiful schoolteacher in the village disrupts the unbearable situation. The film, imbued with Chabrol’s signature atmosphere, skillfully portrays an inevitable decay, set against oppressive interiors and misty winter landscapes. However, it suffers from an imbalance between the two main actors, with Signoret overshadowing her mediocre co-star with her immense talent. “The Mauvais Coups” is not an intimate portrait of the legendary actress but rather a reflection of Vailland’s personal experiences with love, sex, and alcoholism—a compelling aspect not to be overlooked.

“L’Auberge du Péché,” “Monsieur Taxi,” and “Les Mauvais Coups” have been reissued by Pathé in restored copies on DVD/Blu-ray.

Jean-Marc Le Scouarnec