In 1953, the body of a young woman is discovered at Place Ventimille in Paris, dressed in an elegant evening gown. There is nothing to identify her, and no witnesses. Pensive and world-weary Inspector Jules Maigret (Gérard Depardieu) endeavours to piece together her story. As he delves into her past and character, he encounters a woman (Jade Labeste) who bears an uncanny resemblance to the victim, but who also reminds him of someone even closer to his own life.

Fans of 20th century crime fiction will no doubt be familiar with the titular Maigret, the hero of 75 bestselling novels written by Belgian author Georges Simenon from the 1930s to 1970s. A French counterpart to the likes of Poirot, Maigret has been brought to screens both big and small many times over the years – but never quite like this, with Depardieu formidably acquitting himself in the legendary role.