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Le Jour Se Lève

Director: Marcel Carné
Year: 1939
Run-time: 1 hr 33 min

- Carné's films up to now have demonstrated that his model of poetic realism was a clear predecessor to film noir in their nihilism and broken men.  Le Jour Se Lève continues those themes, but in a resolutely unromantic way that doesn't glorify the actions of its desperate lead.  As such, it's probably the strongest of Carné's films so far on the list.  The dialogue is rarely dressed up or snappy, but it creates a stifling mood that reveals how little hope the characters have for breaking out of their destinies. It's not a joyous film to watch, but it's a significant step forward for moviemaking.

- This may be the last we see of Gabin on the list, although I haven't peeked too far ahead. If so, it would be an interesting note to go out on.  Gabin was unique among big film stars for his understatedness. He was always willing to let go of his ego to further the story.
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