Starring: Bette Davis, Franchot Tone, Margaret Lindsay, Dick Foran

Director: Alfred Green (US)

Genre: Drama

Availability: Movies! TV Network

Watch Quality   A-

This cable version has excellent video quality, but the audio is a bit fuzzy.

Plot Summary

An up-and-coming architect who is engaged to be married stumbles upon a washed-up actress who had inspired him as a young man.  He determines to rescue her from alcohol and get her career back on track, but her presence threatens to destroy his life.

Star Power   A-

Bette Davis shines in this complex role, alternately conniving and vulnerable.  Tone is a good foil for Davis, though a bit generic.

Chill Factor   B-

Davis's sensuality and frail grip on emotional stability make for an intense date night that could be cozy.  However, there are some dark moments that might spoil the mood.

Mental Health Check   B

The tragic story is somewhat disturbing, though it is carried along by a sense of inevitability that softens the sorrow a bit.  The characters are intriguing but ultimately doomed by their flaws.

Overall Grade   C+

The filmmakers come close to pulling off a haunting, thoughtful work, but the ending fails to satisfy either the impluse for redemption or for tragic finality.  Bette Davis is the saving grace.