While Paris Sleeps
To save his daughter Manon from falling into the hands of a vicious gang of pimps, convict Jacques Costard escapes from jail. Jacques' problems are twofold: he must keep Manon from being abducted into a life of prostitution, and he must also hide his true identity from the girl, who has been raised to believe that Jacques died a hero in WWI.
Insights
Plot Summary
A Paris underworld figure, known as 'The Frog', manipulates a young woman into a life of crime. He forces her into acting as a decoy for a string of jewel thefts. However, his control over her begins to unravel when she falls for one of his associates and seeks a way out of their dangerous life.
Critical Reception
While Paris Sleeps was a B-movie production, it received moderate attention for its gritty portrayal of the criminal underworld and its suspenseful narrative within its limited scope. It is noted for giving early significant roles to its cast members, including Ida Lupino.
What Reviewers Say
- The film offers a suspenseful crime narrative typical of early 1930s thrillers.
- It is recognized for its competent direction and performances within the B-movie format.
- The depiction of the Parisian underworld is considered effective for its time.
Google audience: Audience reception is scarce due to the film's age and B-movie status, but it is generally considered a competently made, albeit unremarkable, crime drama from the early sound era.
Fun Fact
This film marked an early significant role for Ida Lupino, who would go on to become a prominent actress and director in Hollywood.
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