Director Charles Brabant, whom I did not about until I watched LE PIÈGE, does a good job on the basis of excellent B&W photography, and a superb minimalist soundtrack with constant mechanical noises from a nearby fuel production complex, all of which contributes toward a feeling of reclusion and claustrophobia, especially from the moment police come on the scene and spring the trap on the murderous couple.
Vanel is superb as the completely amoral and reptilian father in law of Magali Noel, who not only ogles his daughter in law in the intimacy of her bedroom but also blackmails her into agreeing to sleep with him or she and Vallone will be reported to the police, and not be allowed to elope.
Magali is not really up to scratch. Moreau, Deneuve or Dorléac would have added considerable acting credibility to this film.
Vallone has excellent patches of acting. The scene where Magali and he see each and are immediately attracted to each other, is phenomenal. Generally, the two shine when they are together. Magali does not do so well on her own. Vallone admirably conveys rage issues and comes across as a likable character, his murder of a man in Italy notwithstanding.
The script has quite a few holes in it, which is a pity. Well worth watching, nonetheless
Vanel is superb as the completely amoral and reptilian father in law of Magali Noel, who not only ogles his daughter in law in the intimacy of her bedroom but also blackmails her into agreeing to sleep with him or she and Vallone will be reported to the police, and not be allowed to elope.
Magali is not really up to scratch. Moreau, Deneuve or Dorléac would have added considerable acting credibility to this film.
Vallone has excellent patches of acting. The scene where Magali and he see each and are immediately attracted to each other, is phenomenal. Generally, the two shine when they are together. Magali does not do so well on her own. Vallone admirably conveys rage issues and comes across as a likable character, his murder of a man in Italy notwithstanding.
The script has quite a few holes in it, which is a pity. Well worth watching, nonetheless