L'assassin a peur la nuit
L'assassin a peur la nuit

Movie spotlight

L'assassin a peur la nuit

1942
Movie
100 min
French

Having pulled off a robbery with his friend Maurice, Olivier leaves his mistress Lola and hides out in a small village in the country. He finds work, thanks to a young man named Gilbert, who introduces him to his sister, Monique. Once the robbery has been all but forgotten, Olivier intends to head back to Paris, but before he goes, he steals money from his employer. In Paris, Olivier wants to say a proper goodbye to Lola, but she is being blackmailed by Jérôme, an antique dealer who has recognized a necklace stolen by Olivier. Before returning to Monique, Olivier calls on Jérôme to recover the necklace.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: Jean FaurezGenres: Mystery, Film-Noir

Plot Summary

A detective investigates a series of murders where the killer seems to be targeting women based on their fear of the dark. As the investigation deepens, the detective uncovers a complex web of secrets and psychological motives. The killer's methods are as terrifying as the darkness itself, leading to a suspenseful pursuit.

Critical Reception

While 'L'assassin a peur la nuit' was a product of its time and not as widely discussed as some later film-noirs, it is recognized for its atmospheric suspense and contribution to the genre's early development in France. Critics at the time often noted its tension-building narrative and the performances of its lead actors, particularly Viviane Romance.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its suspenseful atmosphere and intriguing mystery.

  • Appreciated for its early exploration of psychological thriller elements within the noir framework.

  • Viviane Romance's performance is often highlighted as a strong point.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific film is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The film's title, 'L'assassin a peur la nuit,' translates to 'The Killer is Afraid of the Night,' adding a layer of irony to the narrative where the killer seems to weaponize darkness.

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