Don't Tempt the Devil (French: Les Bonnes Causes, Italian: Il delitto Dupré) is a 1963 French-Italian crime film written and directed by Christian-Jaque and starring Bourvil, Marina Vlady, Virna Lisi and Pierre Brasseur. It is based on the novel Les Bonnes Causes by Jean Laborde.
Contents
Plot
Gina serves as the dedicated nurse to Paul Dupré, a wealthy industrialist undergoing treatment for heart problems. Dupré dies suddenly while receiving an injection administered by Gina. Immediately, his wife Catherine, aided by the renowned lawyer Charles Cassidi—who had a brief affair with her—accuses Gina of foul play. Gina finds herself represented by a novice lawyer, Mr. Philliet, while the investigation falls under the scrutiny of the examining magistrate Albert Gaudet.
As the investigation progresses, Gaudet uncovers a series of troubling coincidences and inconsistencies that seem to implicate Gina. The evident collusion between Catherine Dupré and Cassidi, coupled with Cassidi's past writings on the perfect crime, adds further suspicion. However, just as Gaudet believes he has a crucial witness to incriminate Catherine, he confronts Cassidi, who remains composed despite knowing Catherine's guilt. Struggling with his conscience, Gaudet requests to step down from his role, eventually testifying at the trial in a bid for truth and justice. Despite Gaudet's efforts, Gina receives an eight-year prison sentence.
Shortly after the verdict, Catherine Dupré absconds to the Côte d'Azur with a new lover, leaving Cassidi to realize he has been manipulated. He implores Mr. Philliet to appeal the verdict, swearing to right the injustice done to Gina, who he believes to be innocent.
Cast
Marina Vlady as Catherine Dupré
Bourvil as juge Albert Gaudet
Virna Lisi as Gina Bianchi
Pierre Brasseur as Mr. Charles Cassidi
Umberto Orsini as Mr. Philliet
Jacques Mauclair as Georges Boisset
Hubert Deschamps as Dr. Mermet
Raymond Devime as Inspector Véricel
Jacques Monod as Magnin
Robert Vidalin as président du tribunal
Marcel Cuvelier as Morin
Gilbert Gil as Garat
Frédéric Pottecher as Himself
José Luis de Vilallonga as Paul Dupré
Mony Dalmès as Marjorie
Hubert Noël as Catherine's Lover
Bernard Musson as Robert
Jean-Loup Philippe as Gina's Ex-fiancé
Daniel Lecourtois as Lawyer
Robert Berri as Inspector