Barbara Stanwyck stars as the wealthiest and most powerful woman in a Midwestern factory town. However, she shares a dark secret with her unhappy, alcoholic husband played by Kirk Douglas in his film debut. When an old acquaintance comes to town things fall apart. Directed by Lewis Milestone, this 1946 film also stars Van Heflin and Lizabeth Scott. 116 minutes.
This is a four star film. Barbara Stanwyck, whom some critics believe to be the best film actress ever, is at her best, and Kirk Douglas, in his film debut, shows why he would go on to be a huge star. Equally impressive are Van Heflin, and Lizabeth Scott, also in her film debut.
Behind the camera, the crew was also impressive. Director Lewis Milestone. not known for film noir, filmed a taut, suspenseful drama right to the last climactic scene.There is a fine screenplay by Robert Rossen that is matched by the musical score of Miklos Rozsa. Finally, there is the work by Edith Head, the famed costume designer who was Stanwyck's favorite. Eddie Muller's intro to the film shows how clothes can make the woman.


No comments:
Post a Comment