“Elevator to the Gallows” is a 1958 French crime drama directed by Louis Malle. Set in 1950s Paris, the movie weaves a complex tale of love, murder, and deception. The film skillfully combines film noir and psychological suspense elements, delivering a thrilling and atmospheric cinematic experience.
The story follows two parallel narratives that eventually intertwine. The first centers around Julien Tavernier, a former French paratrooper played by Maurice Ronet, and his lover, Florence Carala, portrayed by Jeanne Moreau. Julien is married to Florence’s boss, a wealthy industrialist, and the two lovers plan to murder him. Julien meticulously orchestrates an alibi, leaving Florence to wait for him in a hotel room.
Meanwhile, in a seemingly unrelated plotline, a young couple, Louis and Veronique, portrayed by Georges Poujouly and Yori Bertin, steal Julien’s car. This impulsive act sets off a chain of events with unforeseen consequences.
As Julien makes his way to the office building where he plans to execute the murder, unforeseen circumstances lead him to become trapped inside an elevator. Panicked and desperate, he desperately tries to find a way out while struggling with his guilty conscience.
Simultaneously, Florence wanders the streets of Paris, consumed by anxiety and uncertainty as she awaits Julien’s arrival. The tension builds as chance encounters, mistaken identities, and unfortunate events turn their carefully planned crime into a tangled web of suspense.
Director Louis Malle masterfully creates an eerie atmosphere through evocative cinematography and the haunting jazz score by Miles Davis. The film beautifully captures the mood and spirit of 1950s Paris, its dark alleys, and dimly lit cafes, adding depth and richness to the narrative.
“Elevator to the Gallows” is a compelling exploration of the human psyche under pressure, showcasing the consequences of impulsive actions and the complex nature of fate. The film is a timeless classic of French cinema and a must-see for fans of suspense and noir storytelling.
You can access it through The Criterion Collection and stream it on The Criterion Channel or MAX.
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