Georges Simenon’s famous Commissaire Maigre has been played on screen by many actors, from Pierre Renoir to Harry Bauer through Michel Simon, Bruno Kremer and Gérard Depardieu. But if there’s one unforgettable incarnation of the character, it’s Jean Gabin, who played the role in three films. Good news: Arte is airing one of them tonight, the case of Maigret and Saint-Fiacre, possibly the best “episode” ever.
The Maigret and Saint-Fiacre Affair, released in cinemas in 1959, sees the Commissioner return to his hometown as his old friend, the Countess Saint-Fiacre, receives an anonymous letter saying that he will die on Ash Wednesday… when the day comes, he will be found dead. A diagnosis of cardiac arrest is made, but this version of the facts is not enough for Maigret.
The big screen adaptation of the novel The Case of St. Fiacre George Simenon’s Jean Delano feature film is excellent in every way. Jean Gabin, who has been finding character and direction since Maigret Sets Trap (and who will play the Commissar for the last time with Maigret Sees Red), gives a pitch-perfect performance, inspired by Michel Audiard’s dialogue.
3 million viewers investigate with Maigre!
A very charming nostalgic atmosphere of Maigret returning to the places of his childhood, a solid plot, excellent suspense, a flawless interpretation with Gabin (who shot with the same actor 18 times) with impressive charisma and a great supporting cast, including Valentine Tessier, Michel Auclair, Robert Hirsch and Jacret-Fiair Mart. As a clear success in the detective film genre.
The Maigret and Saint-Fiacre Affair, which enjoys a good rating of 4 out of 5 from AlloCiné viewers, attracted almost 2.9 million viewers in French cinemas. It’s up to you, this Monday night, to lead the investigation with this legendary commissioner…
Tonight at Arte at 20:55.
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
