Elevator to the Gallows (1958)

About Elevator to the Gallows

Elevator to the Gallows (French: Ascenseur pour l'échafaud) is a 1958 French film noir directed by Louis Malle. Centered around Florence Carala (Jeanne Moreau) and Julien Tavernier (Maurice Ronet), they are lovers who plan to kill Florence's husband, Simon Carala (Jean Wall), a wealthy industrialist. However, after Julien completes the murder, he gets stuck in an elevator, leading to an unforeseen chain of suspenseful events and tragic consequences.

Making / Production

The movie is Louis Malle's directorial debut and is considered a precursor to the French New Wave movement. The film's unique approach to narrative storytelling and cinema verite style are characteristics commonly associated with the New Wave movement that started in the late 1950s.

Actors

• Jeanne Moreau as Florence Carala - Moreau adds depth and despair to her character, making audiences sympathize with her despite her role in the murder plot.
• Maurice Ronet as Julien Tavernier - Ronet compellingly portrays the moral ambiguity of his character, eliciting both sympathy and revulsion from viewers.
• George Poujouly as Louis - Poujouly effectively brings to life the mischief and recklessness of the young Louis.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film highlights a breakthrough improvised score by jazz musician Miles Davis.
• This was the first feature film directed by Louis Malle who was only 24 years old at the time.

Awards

The movie won the Louis Delluc Prize in 1957, and Jeanne Moreau won the BAFTA Award for Best Foreign Actress for her role in the film in 1959.

Quotes

• "Maneuvers should always be carried out at full speed." - Julien

Music, Soundtrack

• Elevator to the Gallows - The original soundtrack composed by jazz legend Miles Davis, it is considered a pioneering work in the world of film music.
• Nuit sur les Champs-Élysées - This track is a dreamy jazz piece that adds to the film's noir atmosphere.