It’s been 75 years since Henri-Georges Clouzot’s Les Diaboliques first graced the silver screen, and its chilling impact has yet to wane. Widely regarded as one of the greatest psychological thrillers ever made, this French masterpiece weaves an intricate tale of murder, revenge, and betrayal that continues to captivate audiences decades later.

At its core, Les Diaboliques tells the story of two women, Christina Delassalle (Véra Clouzot) and Nicole Horner (Simone Signoret), who conspire to murder Christina’s abusive husband, Michel (Paul Meurisse). What unfolds is a meticulously crafted narrative of suspense, where nothing is as it seems. Every twist is perfectly timed, every revelation carefully seeded, and the result is a finale so shocking that it has been etched into cinematic history.

Clouzot’s direction is nothing short of masterful. With an acute eye for detail and a relentless ability to build tension, he turns the mundane into the menacing. The waterlogged bathtub, the murky swimming pool, and the claustrophobic corridors of the boarding school all become characters in their own right, infused with an almost unbearable sense of dread.

The performances are equally outstanding. Simone Signoret brings a sharp, calculated edge to Nicole, her steely resolve a perfect counterpoint to Véra Clouzot’s fragile, haunted Christina. Together, they form a complex dynamic that anchors the film’s emotional and psychological core. Paul Meurisse’s portrayal of the detestable Michel is chilling in its casual cruelty, making his eventual fate all the more satisfying.

What truly sets Les Diaboliques apart is its seamless blend of genres. It’s a thriller, yes, but it’s also a mystery, a horror film, and a character study. Clouzot balances these elements with remarkable precision, creating a film that is as thought-provoking as it is terrifying.

Even 75 years later, Les Diaboliques feels as fresh and riveting as it did in 1955. Its influence can be seen in countless films that followed, from Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho (a film Hitchcock reportedly wanted to outdo Clouzot with) to modern psychological thrillers. Yet, few have matched its brilliance.

The film’s enduring legacy is a testament to its perfection. From its spine-tingling suspense to its unforgettable climax, Les Diaboliques remains a masterpiece of intrigue and terror, as thrilling today as it was 75 years ago.

• Saul Muerte