Circonstances atténuantes (1939) - film review

Monsieur Gaetan, a respectable judge, takes his tyrannical wife on holiday, so that he can secretly pay a call on his mistress.  Whilst visiting an inn, he is mistaken for a master crook and ends up being accepted by a band of outlaws, led by the alluring Marie Jeanne.  Taking pity on his new friends, Gaetan helps them in their next criminal exploits, using his knowledge of the legal system to save them from law.  Unfortunately, things soon start to go wrong...

Michel Simon and Arletty each turn in an ebullient comic performance in this entertaining farce, masterfully directed by Jean Boyer.  As in their previous collaboration, Fric-Frac (1939), both actors are convincing in their roles and bring more than a touch of poignancy and wry humour to their characters.  Despite the absurdity of the plot, Circonstances atténuantes makes an amusing diversion, with much of the comedy remaining surprisingly fresh and effective.  The film’s song, Comme de bien entendu, went on to become a hugely popular number, and was allegedly sung by French soldiers at the start of World War II with more than a touch of irony.

© James Travers 2003

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