Backbiters (1924): cast, story & where to watch
1924 · Film · ★ 6.8
Released in 1924, Backbiters is a drama film directed by Jean Renoir, running about 84 minutes.
What it’s about. Interesting first (silent) movie from Renoir he realized so his wife could have the leading role of Catherine. The movie became an object of quarrel between Renoir and Dieudonné who directed this vehicle together and each played also a part in the movie. Was this a Renoir movie or one of Dieudonné, reducing Renoir to its pupil? The dispute became so heavy 2 versions exist, one cut by Renoir and one by Dieudonné. However the themes are so typically Renoir that I question the claim of the co-director. Like in so many other Renoir movies you see a picture of the relationships between masters and servants, with a clear sympathy for the servants and a great dislike for the hypocrisy of the ruling classes. Also the contradiction between order and disorder (major theme in the complete oeuvre of Renoir) is already present in this first attempt to make a movie.
Who’s in it. Backbiters stars Catherine Hessling as Catherine Ferrand, Albert Dieudonné as Maurice Laisné, Eugénie Nau as Madame Laisné and Louis Gauthier as Georges Mallet, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.8/10, Backbiters has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Backbiters page.
If you liked it. Fans of Backbiters tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Backbiters (1924)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Backbiters change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Backbiters worth watching?
- Backbiters holds an audience score of 6.8 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Backbiters?
- Backbiters stars Catherine Hessling, Albert Dieudonné, Eugénie Nau, Louis Gauthier and Maud Richard.
- When was Backbiters released?
- Backbiters was released in 1924, with a runtime of about 84 minutes.