I was very impressed by how well "Pepe le Moko" held up for a film from 1937. Superbly directed by Julien Duvivier, wonderfully atmospheric and brilliantly photographed (and looking practically pristine in the Criterion edition), it was a revelation. It also features across-the-board fine performances, especially from Lucas Gridoux as Slimane and Line Noro as Ines. Special mention has to be made for leading lady Mireille Balin's glittering-eyed beauty and especially for Jean Gabin in the title role. He exudes the magnetism and authority of the true movie star here and the adoring close-ups of he and Balin epitomize 1930's glamour. Excellent, entertaining movie that was a forerunner for many exotic adventures to come.