Break of Day (film)

Break of Day, also known as Rupture au Soleil, is a 1950 French drama film directed by Jacques Becker. The film stars Danielle Darrieux, Jean Desailly, and Michel Auclair.

The story revolves around a love triangle that unfolds in a rural, agricultural setting. It explores themes of jealousy, obsession, and the complexities of human relationships. More specifically, the narrative centers on Alexandre (Desailly), a veterinary surgeon in a small French village, who finds himself torn between two women: Thérèse (Darrieux), a successful and independent actress passing through, and Denise (France Descaut), a local woman to whom he is engaged. The film follows Alexandre's internal struggles as he grapples with his desires and the potential consequences of his choices.

Break of Day is noted for its naturalistic style and its focus on character development. Becker's direction emphasizes the realism of the setting and the emotional nuances of the characters. The film received critical acclaim for its performances and its sensitive portrayal of human emotions. While not as widely known as some of Becker's other works, it is considered a significant contribution to French cinema of the post-war era.