The End of the Day
La Fin du jour
France • 1939
Director
Synopsis
A bittersweet reflection on aging, mortality, and the memories and regrets that make up a lifetime, this affecting tragicomedy centers on a coterie of broke, washed-up actors now living in a retirement home where they relive their faded glory days on the stage with a twinge of melancholy. When once-renowned actor Raphaël Saint-Clair (Louis Jouvet) comes to join them, old rivalries are reawakened. The great Michel Simon delivers a typically memorable performance as the perpetual understudy who never got his big break.
Synopsis
A bittersweet reflection on aging, mortality, and the memories and regrets that make up a lifetime, this affecting tragicomedy centers on a coterie of broke, washed-up actors now living in a retirement home where they relive their faded glory days on the stage with a twinge of melancholy. When once-renowned actor Raphaël Saint-Clair (Louis Jouvet) comes to join them, old rivalries are reawakened. The great Michel Simon delivers a typically memorable performance as the perpetual understudy who never got his big break.
Credits
Crew
Cast
Louis Jouvetas Raphaël Saint-Clair, former Don Juan and adored actor
Michel Simonas Ernest Cabrissade, eternal understudy
Madeleine Ozerayas Jeannette, little maid at the café
Sylvieas Madame Tusini
Madame Lherbayas Madame Philémon
Gabrielle Fontanas Madame Jambage
Odette Talazacas Singer