A contrived soap opera which wouldn't pass muster even today.
The only thing that saves it is the superb performance of Mary Astor in what could have been a one-dimensional bitch role. She richly deserved her Oscar.
BTW, I can't imagine two intelligent women fighting over the likes of Pete Van Allen. He wasn't worth it. Maybe if he was portrayed by a better actor than the boring George Brent, but... .
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I liked it very much. I enjoyed the leisurely pace, screenplay, acting, etc. If it is dated, good -- so be it. Brent is often kind of stolid, but I liked him here. I thought the ending was great: " when he tells Maggie that her little bit of crying may make the arriving lunch guests think he slapped her... then he says if she doesn't stop he will have to slap her around a little." Great acting and lines.
shareFrom smashing a grapefruit in a woman's face to slapping her face, a lot has changed in the fair treatment of women. I enjoy this for its storytelling of the time. This is one story where I make a point of leaving my judgement at the door.
If we can save humanity, we become the caretakers of the world
I'm watching it now - It's dated in every way like many films of the period, but it works as an elegant Warner Brother's woman's picture. I'm sure the matinees sold out.
shareIn many ways what you mentioned above was even relevant in 1941: folks flocked to the movies for escape, not realism
Even larks and katydids are, supposed by some, to dream
Great movie, with terrific performances by Davis, Astor, Brent, and the whole supporting cast. I love the fact that it's dated. It looks and sounds like 1941, which is one of the reasons to watch it. Everything about it works as entertainment.
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