Elevator to the Gallows! An Existential Noir with Stunning Cinematography and a Haunting Jazz Score

Released in 1958 (though filmed in 1957), Louis Malle’s “Elevator to the Gallows” (“Ascenseur pour l’échafaud” in its original French) isn’t your typical crime thriller. It transcends the genre, offering a poignant reflection on love, fate, and the weight of societal expectations. Set against the backdrop of post-war Paris, the film weaves together a narrative that is as visually captivating as it is emotionally resonant.
A Twisting Plot: The story revolves around Julien Tavernier (Maurice Ronet), a former soldier entangled in a web of deceit and betrayal. He’s hired to murder his employer, a wealthy industrialist who plans to double-cross him. However, the seemingly straightforward plan goes awry when Julien’s mistress, Florence Carlier (Jeanne Moreau), unwittingly becomes an accomplice. As the two attempt to escape the city, they find themselves separated by circumstance: Julien is trapped in an elevator during a power outage while Florence navigates the labyrinthine streets of Paris, pursued by both the police and the true culprit behind the murder plot.
The film unfolds with an almost dreamlike quality, blurring the lines between reality and perception. As Julien waits helplessly within the confines of the stalled elevator, his thoughts drift towards his past, his present predicament, and the uncertain future that awaits him.
Masterful Cinematography: “Elevator to the Gallows” is a masterclass in cinematic technique. The film’s black-and-white cinematography, by the acclaimed Henri Decaë (who also shot “The 400 Blows”), beautifully captures the urban landscape of Paris: bustling streets, dimly lit alleyways, and towering apartment buildings.
Decaë’s use of light and shadow adds depth and complexity to each scene, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue that pervades the entire film. The camera often lingers on seemingly mundane details – reflections in windows, the movement of clouds across the sky, the flickering lights of Parisian nightlife – imbuing them with a profound significance that resonates long after the credits roll.
The Haunting Score: Adding to the film’s unsettling atmosphere is Miles Davis’ groundbreaking jazz score. The music is not simply background accompaniment but rather an integral part of the narrative, underscoring the characters’ emotions and mirroring the shifting moods of the story.
Davis’ improvisations are particularly noteworthy, weaving together melodies that are both melancholic and exhilarating, perfectly reflecting Julien and Florence’s journey through love, loss, and despair.
A Glimpse into Existential Themes:
“Elevator to the Gallows” delves into profound existential themes:
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Freedom vs. Fate: The film explores the conflict between individual agency and the inevitability of destiny.Julien’s meticulously planned crime unravels due to unforeseen circumstances, leaving him to grapple with the realization that his actions may be predetermined.
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Love and Betrayal: Julien and Florence’s passionate affair is complicated by their involvement in the murder plot. Their love story becomes a tangled web of guilt, desire, and desperation, highlighting the complexities of human relationships.
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Social Conformity and Rebellion: Set against the backdrop of post-war France, the film subtly critiques societal norms and expectations. Julien’s decision to commit murder is partly driven by his resentment towards the established order.
Cast and Crew: The success of “Elevator to the Gallows” can be attributed to the masterful collaboration between its talented cast and crew:
Role | Actor/Actress |
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Julien Tavernier | Maurice Ronet |
Florence Carlier | Jeanne Moreau |
Louis | Georges Poujouly |
Director:
- Louis Malle: A pioneering filmmaker of the French New Wave movement, known for his innovative approach to storytelling and his ability to capture complex emotions with striking visual imagery.
Production Notes:
- Released in 1958, but filmed in late 1957
- Running time: 94 minutes
- Language: French
“Elevator to the Gallows” is a cinematic gem that continues to captivate audiences decades after its release. Its blend of suspense, romance, and existential reflection elevates it beyond the confines of a typical crime thriller, making it a must-see for cinephiles and casual viewers alike.