Story
Directed by Max Ophuls, this 1952 French film is an adaptation of three short stories by famed author Guy de Maupassant. Ophuls, known for his distinct camera movements and intricate mise-en-scène, brings his signature style to this cinematic anthology. The film is composed of three segments: "Le Masque," "La Maison Tellier," and "Le Modèle," each exploring different facets of love and human experience.The cast includes some notable names from the era, with Jean Gabin, Danielle Darrieux, and Simone Simon leading the ensemble. Jean Gabin, as always, delivers a compelling performance, adding nuance and depth to his character in "La Maison Tellier." Danielle Darrieux and Simone Simon likewise bring layers of emotion and charisma, embodying the complexities of their roles with grace.Max Ophuls received critical acclaim for his direction, with particular praise for his ability to evoke the emotional richness of Maupassant’s stories. Although the film did not win major international awards, it remains highly regarded in cinema history for its artistic achievements and the director’s masterful use of camera work to enhance storytelling. The film’s themes of pleasure, melancholy, and the ephemeral nature of human experiences are depicted through Ophuls’ exceptional craftsmanship.