Ma pomme (1950) - film review

Maurice Vallier, nick-named Ma pomme is more than content with his life as a Parisian tramp.  When he learns that he has inherited a vast fortune, he is at first reluctant to accept his new-found wealth, especially when he realises that by rejecting his share of the inheritance he also deprives his obnoxious distant cousins of getting theirs.  But he has a change of heart when he discovers there is another beneficiary of the will - a young air stewardess named Claire...

Although too obviously intended as a vehicle for popular music hall performer Maurice Chevalier, Ma pomme nevertheless makes an entertaining comedy whilst telling a thoughtful morality tale about man’s unhealthy affinity with money.  The film includes some pleasing performances, notably from Sophie Desmarets (playing a gold digger who has evidently lost interest in money), Jane Marken, Jean Wall and, it goes without saying, the superlative Maurice Chevalier.

This is arguably one of Chevalier’s most entertaining film appearances. It may be hard to imagine the debonair chansonnier as a scruffy tramp, but the instant you see him you know he is perfect for the part.   Each of Chevalier’s songs in the film is a treat, particular his celebrated 1930s hit Ma pomme which introduces his character and defines the tone of the film.

Whilst the plot is somewhat lacking in imagination, Ma pomme includes a number of pleasing comic situations  (interspersed with some surprising darker moments).  However, it has to be said that it is Maurice Chevalier who carries the film, bringing something magical to what would otherwise have been a rather ordinary light comedy.

© James Travers 2002

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