At the onset of the First World War, Cresté enlisted in the French army and actively participated in the fighting.

[2] In 1916, Feuillade and writer Arthur Bernède began to develop a surrealistic character called 'Jacques de Tremeuse' (aka 'Judex') – a mysterious avenger who sports a signature long dark cloak and wide-brimmed slouch hat.

[4] René Cresté was eventually cast as 'Judex' and the serial began production in 1917 and was released the same year in its first installment to critical and public praise.

[5] The serial also starred Musidora, Édouard Mathé, Gaston Michel, René Poyen, Yvette Andréyor and Yvonne Dario.

To support the financial needs of his widow and infirmed daughter, a charity gala was organized by friends of the Cresté family in February 1929.