Wednesday, June 18, 2008

La Poison (1951)


The movie begins with the director introducing the cast & crew. Interesting. Usually we only can read their names, especially those who work behind the camera; but in this movie we can see their faces.

Paul Braconnier (Michel Simon) can't live with his spouse any longer. He says she is not the same woman he married 30 years ago. The wife most likely feels the same because she buys rat poison from the local apothecary. Every night the couple have their dinner without conversation, only listen to the radio. One night, the radio broadcasts successful lawyer Aubanel's interview, to celebrate his 100th acquittal. Braconnier is inspired by the interview and goes to see the lawyer, telling him that he has killed his wife. In the meeting, the lawyer indirectly tells Braconnier what is best to do. Braconnier goes home, kills his wife with details discussed with Aubanel, and gives himself up to the police. The lawyer, like it or not, has to accept the case and tries to acquits Braconnier. The townspeople are happy with the incident because it attracts tourists.



In all, this is a very enjoyable movie. The trial scenes are hilarious, but not stupid. Braconnier, who defends himself, is funny but reasonable.

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