Episode 45: The Golden Coach (1953)

"At the end of the second act, when Colombine goes, driven away by her masters, there is a tradition you seem not to know.  The comedians bow to her." Known primarily for his films like Grand Illusion (1937) and Rules of the Game (1939), Jean Renoir left France in the 1940's to make movies in Hollywood.  Europe eventually drew him back, however, and in the 1950's he made a trio of films which were later called his "Stage and Spectacle" trilogy by some.  The first of these was The Golden Coach (1953). A fable about wealth and opulence when it's injected with humility in the form of a charming actress named Camilla (played by Anna Magnani), The Golden Coach is not widely known as one of Renoir's best films, but this doesn't lessen the fact that it's a delightful little drama peppered with sweet comedy.  It is indeed a surprising little gem. Have a comment or question for the host?  Email Sean at [email protected], follow him on Twitter at @1001MoviesPC, and look for the podcast's Facebook page.