Watch Hotel Du Nord

Hotel Du Nord is a French film from 1938 that tells the story of a couple named Renée and Pierre who decide to commit suicide by jumping into the Seine river. However, they are saved by a passerby named Edmond who takes them to the Hotel Du Nord, a run-down hotel located in Paris, where they decide to start a new life together.

The hotel is owned by Madame Lecouvreur, a middle-aged woman who lives with her rude and abusive husband, a former actor named Monsieur Edmond. The couple runs the hotel with the help of their son, Henri, a meek and sensitive young man who is in love with a prostitute named Raymonde.

As Renée and Pierre settle into their new life at the hotel, they begin to encounter the other inhabitants and guests of the hotel. Among them are Mr. Edmond's mistress, a wealthy businesswoman named Adèle who is carrying on a secret affair with Henri, and a group of criminals who use the hotel as a base for their illegal activities.

The movie explores the complicated relationships between the various characters, as they struggle to find love and happiness in a world that is often cruel and unforgiving. Renée and Pierre are particularly compelling as they try to move on from their past and build a new life together, despite the obstacles and challenges they face.

Louis Jouvet gives a standout performance as Monsieur Edmond, the cruel and domineering husband who takes pleasure in tormenting his wife and son. His portrayal of the character is both chilling and heartbreaking, as he reveals the deep-seated insecurities and fears that drive his abusive behavior.

Annabella and Jean-Pierre Aumont also deliver strong performances as Renée and Pierre, two lovers who are haunted by their past and trying to forge a new future together. Their chemistry is palpable, and their characters are sympathetic and relatable.

The film is notable for its stunning visuals, which capture the gritty yet romantic atmosphere of Paris in the 1930s. The scenes set in the Hotel Du Nord are particularly striking, with the dimly lit halls and peeling wallpaper adding to the sense of decay and despair.

Overall, Hotel Du Nord is a powerful and emotionally resonant film that explores the complexities of human relationships with sensitivity and depth. Its compelling characters, evocative setting, and masterful performances make it a must-see for fans of classic cinema.