Overview

The struggles of a small business owner come to light in this film by director André Cayatte. The proprietor of a fabric shop, M. Baudu faces stiff competition when a department store moves in across the street, the first of its kind in 1860s Paris. On top of the stresses associated with the rival retailer, Baudu’s niece and two nephews take up residence with him after recently being orphaned. The niece, Denise Baudu, sees the writing on the wall for her uncle’s business so she takes a job as a shop girl with his competitor and despite her success the decision does not register well with the family.

Top Cast

Michel Simon

Baudu

Albert Préjean

Octave Mouret

Blanchette Brunoy

Denise Baudu

Suzy Prim

Madame Desforges

Juliette Faber

Marguerite Vadon, saleswoman

Huguette Vivier

Clara Prunaire, saleswoman

Santa Relli

Geneviève Baudu, Baudu's daughter

Catherine Fonteney

Aurélie L'homme

Jacqueline Gauthier

Pauline Cugnot, saleswoman in the lingerie department

René Blancard

Jules Colomban, Baudu's clerk

Georges Chamarat

Inspector Jouve

Pierre Bertin

Gaujean, fabric supplier