Héléna Manson, born in 1898, was a French actress whose career spanned over six decades, leaving a mark in the realm of cult cinema. In The Burning Court (1962), she delivers a compelling performance that intertwines with the film's eerie narrative. Manson also appears in Roman Polanski's The Tenant (1976), where her presence adds depth to the psychological tension. Her unique contributions to these films highlight her ability to navigate the darker themes prevalent in exploitation and giallo genres.
The Burning Court
Historian Michel Boissard (Walter Giller), is invited with his wife Marie (Édith Scob), a descendant of Madame de Brinvilliers, the notorious poisoner, to the château of Mathias Desgrez (Frédéric Duvallès). Mathias Desgrez is a descendant of the last lover of the Marchioness, who denounced her. Mathias is adept in the occult arts, which he practises with his friend Dr. Hermann (Antoine Balpêtré). To the château come Marc Desgrez (Jean-Claude Brialy), and Stephane Desgrez (Claude Rich), nephews of Mathias, who are waiting impatiently for their inheritance. The wife of Marc, Lucy (Perrette Pradier) also has hopes. And Marc's mistress Myra (Nadja Tiller) who is Mathias' personal nurse, would like to accelerate Marc's uncle's death. Mathias himself is fascinated by Marie Boissard. One night, a little time later, Mathias dies having received a visit from a mysterious woman bringing him medications, and is seen by a servant. Mathias is buried and then his body disappears just when the analysis proves that he has undoubtedly been poisoned. By whom? Lucy - eager to inherit? Myra - to please her lover? Marie - to avenge her betrayed ancestor, by the ancestor of Mathias? Inspector Krauss (Claude Piéplu) enquires into the matter.
