This episode is based on Simenon's short story "Sale by Auction," one of several Maigret short stories. Normally I want things to go by the book as much as possible, but here I must commend the scriptwriter(s) for creating a delightful "locked door" murder mystery that, though it borrows the basic story line from Simenon's story, goes its own way. The characters here are much better developed than in the short story. And the plot and the "who done it" moment much more satisfying. I especially enjoyed seeing an elderly Daniel Gelin dominate the scenes he is in.
Maigret is sick and forced to stay at an inn run by a former criminal. Several men have gathered there in anticipation of bidding on a house and land in an upcoming auction. One of them is murdered, and Maigret forces everyone at the inn to re-enact their actions during the night of the murder. A few twists and turns and surprises and then the key to it all is revealed.
Maigret is sick and forced to stay at an inn run by a former criminal. Several men have gathered there in anticipation of bidding on a house and land in an upcoming auction. One of them is murdered, and Maigret forces everyone at the inn to re-enact their actions during the night of the murder. A few twists and turns and surprises and then the key to it all is revealed.