File 113

About This Movie

File 113 has this gritty, atmospheric vibe that just pulls you into early 30s Paris. The story revolves around a cop chasing down a string of crimes—robberies and blackmail that keep you guessing. While the director's name is lost to time, the adaptation from Émile Gaboriau's work offers a rawness that’s compelling. The pacing keeps things tense, with practical effects that give a real sense of the period. The performances are earnest, bringing out the desperation of a city caught in a web of crime. It’s a neat snapshot of an era, and it connects a bit more with real-life influences than many others from the time.

File 113 is relatively rare in collector circles, with few surviving prints, making it a fascinating piece for those into early sound films. The scarcity of materials adds to its allure, as does its connection to Gaboriau, a significant figure in mystery literature. Historically, it’s been hard to find in quality formats, with most copies floating around the collector’s market being quite worn. Still, for those who appreciate the nuances of early cinema, it presents a unique glimpse into Parisian life and the evolving genre of mystery.