How to Keep the Red Lamp Burning

About This Movie

How to Keep the Red Lamp Burning is this quirky mix of comedy and drama from 1965 that unfolds in three segmented stories. The narrative kicks off with Bernard Blier, who essentially upends a brothel's charm by removing a lantern—it's this odd little metaphor for societal norms. The second chapter dives deeper into a robbery involving the young baroness, adding a layer of intrigue and a bit of class struggle. And then you have Louis de Funès, whose antics with a lantern serve up a dose of his signature slapstick brilliance. It’s not just about the plot, though; the pacing feels refreshing, with each segment bringing a different flavor while maintaining an underlying satire on social status. The performances manage to blend humor with a serious undertone, making it a curious watch.

This film has a somewhat obscure status, often flying under the radar in collector circles. It’s available primarily in European formats, with scarcity increasing as fewer copies circulate. Interest seems to be on the rise, especially among fans of 1960s cinema or enthusiasts of de Funès, making it a curious item for anyone building a collection centered on international comedies from that era.