A Scandal in Paris (1946)
Directed by Douglas Sirk

Film Synopsis

The man who would later come to call himself Eugène-François Vidocq was born in prison in 1775.  From his earliest years, Vidocq is on the wrong side of the law, and prison becomes a regular home to him.  One day, he escapes with his cellmate Emile Vernet and the two end up lying low for a few years in Napoleon's army.  On their return to Paris, they resume their criminal career and succeed in robbing the wealthy Marquise de Pierremont of her jewels.  Richet, the chief of police, goes after them, but he finds no trace of them, or the stolen jewels.  By discrediting Richet, Vidocq succeeds in stealing his position.  Now all he has to do is betray his best friend, thwart a bank robbery which he planned and make a pious confession...  then Vidocq can live happily ever after, an honest, respectable man.