La belle équipe

A stairwell, lit in a dark expressionist style, is the setting for an uncut tracking shot across several floors and an argument between Jean Gabin's character, who is unemployed and in rent arrears, and the concierge. As news arrives of a lottery win, it is transformed into the natural habitat for a lavish party—and a plan. The lucky winners – five friends – set about renovating a riverside restaurant and dancing hall. But the project proves more difficult to implement than expected. Adverse circumstances, from the weather to the police, from a real estate agent to a scheming wife (on whom anger and contempt are unleashed in drastic fashion), wear down the group's cohesion. Every lively spring celebration in the beer garden is followed by a setback. As is so often the case with Duvivier, LA BELLE ÉQUIPE also ends on a somber note. (mg)