I can genuinely say that I love Jean Gabin's portrayal of Inspector Maigret. He has the same kind of laid-back charm and understated intelligence that Americans might know from Columbo. I enjoy how he questions a suspect without making it feel like an interrogation. He acts so relaxed and friendly with people that you can believe someone might actually confess to this guy without realizing they said too much. I also loved how he involved his fellow police officers in the investigation, including in the tedious work of wearing down a suspect's resistance. The only real problem with all the interrogation scenes is that they do push suspects a bit too far. I think in the real world (at least in the US) much of the testimony they acquire would be thrown out in the courts because they don't even allow people to have a lawyer present before questioning them, even when one has been specifically requested.
Easily the most surprising thing about Maigret Sets a Trap is that the trap he sets is quite early in the film. The cops have plans to catch the crook in the act, and they devise an elaborate scheme to lure him to his doom. But even with the plan in place there are still plenty of things that the Inspector has to figure out and we get to solve the case with him. Even if it's not the most elaborate crime, and we can follow the clues easily, it is still fun to be along for the ride. I adore a good police procedural film, particularly one where they are working the clues to find their man. There's a lot of familiar elements to the style of Maigret Sets a Trap, so I can't say the movie is wholly original, but I don't mind when a movie utilizes tropes as long as they are done well. I was completely entertained by Maigret Sets a Trap, and was surprised how much I was laughing in the midst of this murder mystery. It was a treat.
Easily the most surprising thing about Maigret Sets a Trap is that the trap he sets is quite early in the film. The cops have plans to catch the crook in the act, and they devise an elaborate scheme to lure him to his doom. But even with the plan in place there are still plenty of things that the Inspector has to figure out and we get to solve the case with him. Even if it's not the most elaborate crime, and we can follow the clues easily, it is still fun to be along for the ride. I adore a good police procedural film, particularly one where they are working the clues to find their man. There's a lot of familiar elements to the style of Maigret Sets a Trap, so I can't say the movie is wholly original, but I don't mind when a movie utilizes tropes as long as they are done well. I was completely entertained by Maigret Sets a Trap, and was surprised how much I was laughing in the midst of this murder mystery. It was a treat.