Watch Quay of the Goldsmiths

Quay of the Goldsmiths, also known as Quai des Orfèvres, is a French crime drama film that was released in 1947. Directed by the notable filmmaker, Henri-Georges Clouzot, the movie follows the story of a middle-aged music hall performer named Jenny Lamour (Simone Renant), who dreams of becoming a famous singer. Her husband, Maurice Martineau (Bernard Blier), is an orchestra conductor who is also in love with her. However, their marriage becomes complicated when they get involved in a murder investigation.

The lead investigator in the murder case is the stern, yet sharp-witted Inspector Antoine (Louis Jouvet). He is tasked with finding the killer of a wealthy businessman, who was last seen in Jenny's dressing room. The inspector begins to suspect Maurice and Jenny's involvement, and his investigation reveals the complex relationships between the characters.

Jenny's ambition to become a famous singer puts her in the orbit of wealthy men, and it's not long before Inspector Antoine uncovers her past as a cabaret dancer. Her husband is also shown to be involved in some illegal activities, which only adds to their complexity as characters. Meanwhile, the inspector himself has a complicated personal life, with his wife being an invalid who is dependent on him.

As the investigation deepens, tensions rise and relationships are tested. The movie keeps the audience on its toes as they try to figure out who the real killer is. The distinct characters and their relationships with each other make it an absorbing crime movie that is much more than just a whodunit.

The movie is set in the post-war Parisian backdrop that is captured beautifully by the cinematographer Armand Thirard. The dark, moody lighting and long shadows serve to enhance the suspense and add more depth to the characters. The soundtrack consists of jazzy numbers from the period, adding to the authenticity of the era.

The performances in Quay of the Goldsmiths are top-notch. Simone Renant's Jenny Lamour is a complex character that she plays with great nuance. Bernard Blier's portrayal of Maurice is also noteworthy, making his character equally complicated. However, the standout performance comes from Louis Jouvet as Inspector Antoine. His crisp diction and sharp wit make him a memorable and affable character that keeps the audience engaged.

Quay of the Goldsmiths has been lauded for its intelligent screenplay and intricate character development. It's not just a murder mystery, but rather a character study of people who are flawed, yet relatable. The movie also offers commentary on the inherent inequality in society, with the rich having more power and influence. This adds a layer of social commentary to the proceedings.

Overall, Quay of the Goldsmiths is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and character studies. The performances are top-notch, the cinematography is atmospheric, and the soundtrack is foot-tapping. The twists and turns in the plot keep the audience guessing till the end, making it a suspenseful watch. It's a classic film that has stood the test of time and continues to be celebrated for its masterful storytelling.