The Man Who Watched Trains Go By (1952)
I remember being fascinated by the name and title of the film – and I always remember it. When I stand and watch trains passing at a level crossing I have been known to utter the words of the title to myself The Man Who Watched Trains Go By – so it shows from all those years ago it has created an impression – not for the actual film but for me, the title.
It should have been better known with such a cast, but again, it seems it just was not well promoted at the time.
Claude Rains is a great screen actor in any film his presence has graced. Whether it be a classic or B picture, he brings his own inimitable style to any it – and he certainly does in this not very well known film –
Claude Rains plays a mild mannered clerk named Kees Popinga who discovers that his boss Julius de Koster, Jr. (Herbert Lom) has wiped out the company’s finances, while under the influence of a beautiful Parisian girl Michele Rozier played by Marta Toren.
Popinga takes the money and goes on the run after killing de Koster, while the police are in hot pursuit.
Also starring the lovely Anouk Aimee as Jeanne the prostitute.
This obscure thriller is directed and co scripted by Harold French based on the novel by George Simenon.
