Le cave se rebiffe

It has been many years since I saw this film, and I keep hoping I will run into it again somewhere. I was struck by two unusual aspects.

First, the film appears to show considerable detail about the actual production of counterfeit Dutch currency, almost as if it were a step by step introduction for aspiring forgers of the 1960s.

Second, Jean Gabin as the master forger does not simply outwit the local police and leave his would-be accomplices empty-handed, but then calmly makes for the airport with a suitcase full of real currency. Like a businessman who has had a satisfying overseas trip, he settles back without a care in the world while his plane wafts him to some tropical paradise where there will be no pesky European police to ask questions.

All in a good week's work, the film seems to conclude.