Cast
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Michel Simon
as Michel Lemaret
Madeleine Sologne
as Hélène Asselin
Paul Bernard
as Le docteur Maurice Tiller
Louis Salou
as Le commissaire Louis Martin
Saturnin Fabre
as Philippe Prunier
Marcel André
as Le docteur Lestrade
Lily Mounet
as Alexandrine Jeanne Constance Létitia
Yvette Andréyor
as Mademoiselle Béatrice
Jacques Clancy
as Jacques Leroy, le pianiste
Daniel Gélin
as Pierre Ribault
Claude Lehmann
as Le docteur Pigaut
Cécilia Paroldi
as Claire, la postière
Howard Vernon
as Robert Langlois, le muet
Raoul Marco
as Le maire
Pierre Sergeol
as Charles Levallier
Crew
Director
- Raymond Bernard
Writer
- Raymond Bernard
- Yvan Noé
- Jacques Companéez
Producer
- Raymond Artus
- Constantin Geftman
- Jacques Roitfeld
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, A Friend Will Come Tonight examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Raymond Bernard brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1946, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of A Friend Will Come Tonight took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 125 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 166 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 79 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1946, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: April 9, 1946
- Runtime: 2h 5m