A good movie

I wasn’t really sure what to expect from this flick but since it seemed to have a decent reputation, I thought I might as well check it out. In fact, I just saw yesterday ‘Dark Victory’, another classic starring Bette Davis. Basically, back in those days, these movies were really tailor-made around her, and, to be honest, it takes a while to get used to the fact that these movies didn’t have much else to offer, at least, as far as I was concerned. Still, I was more able to enjoy this one though. Sure, the gimmick of the ugly duckling transforming into a gorgeous woman has never been really interesting but there is no doubt that Davis absolutely made the best of it. Indeed, she was so good when playing this fragile and psychologically disturbed young woman. Later on, when she played the same woman but as strong and independent, it was obviously not such a stretch for Davis who was basically being herself but I have to admit that she was so charismatic. This movie was also a perfect example of toxic narcissistic behavior and the character of the mother was actually quite fascinating, even if her behavior could have been slightly more subtle. At least, the main character didn't fell in love with her doctor like she did in ‘Dark Victory’, the romance was here more convincing here and I think Davis had some pretty good chemistry with Paul Henreid. I have to admit that I was really surprised that they didn’t end up together but it was actually a refreshing way to conclude this romance. Eventually, the whole thing was narratively too scattered though (I didn’t even mention that the main character suddenly ended up taking care of the child of the man she loved during the final act). Anyway, to conclude, even if I don’t think it was a masterpiece, it was still a solid vintage drama and it is definitely worth a look, especially if you like the genre.