Leguignon guérisseur (1954)
Directed by Maurice Labro

Film Review

The enormous popularity of Le Tribunal, a radio show broadcast in the early 1950s on Radio Luxembourg, led to not one but two films, with the star of the show, Yves Deniaud, playing the central character Monsieur Leguignon in both films.  After the success of Monsieur Leguignon lampiste (1952) director Maurice Labro was tasked with making a sequel, Leguignon guérisseur, with Deniaud once again partnered by Jane Marken and subjected (as in the radio show) to a series of ludicrous trials which end up favouring the little man.

As in the first film, there is an unmistakable political subtext to the story, which, in addition to some humorous swipes at tax inspectors, health practitioners and the legal system, seems to come out in favour of 'alternative medicine', many years before the practice acquired legitimacy.  Leguignon guérisseur is not a great film but it is a good-natured comedy which, like its predecessor, portrays the working class in a sympathetic light whilst depicting the middle classes as vain, self-serving hypocrites.  Previously a well-regarded character actor with a flair for both comedy and drama, the dour-looking Yves Deniaud enjoyed a brief period of stardom as a result of his Leguignon films.

Film Synopsis

Diogène Leguignon is surprised when, one day, he realises he has acquired the ability to cure sick animals.  It seems that his healing powers are not confined to pets - he can also cure human beings, just by laying his right hand on whichever part of their body is afflicted.  Soon people are flocking to Monsieur Leguignon's house in their hundreds, and many are so grateful that they foist banknotes on their healer.  Not everyone is happy about Leguignon's miraculous ability.  The relatives of a millionaire are up in arms when they are robbed of their inheritance, and form a syndicate with other disgruntled parties to discredit Leguignon and rob him of his supposed powers of healing...