“The Fire Within” (1963): Maurice Ronet’s Quiet Descent into the Abyss In Louis Malle’s The Fire Within (Le Feu Follet), Maurice Ronet delivers a haunting portrayal of Alain Leroy, a man adrift in existential despair. Ronet, known for his roles in films like Elevator to the Gallows and Purple Noon, brings a profound depth to Alain, capturing the character’s internal turmoil with subtlety and grace.   The film unfolds over 24 hours, following Alain as he navigates Paris, seeking connection and