This is a very touching, classic film that will stick with you for a long time. Robert Young and Dorothy McGuire play two "unattractive" outcasts who are literally transformed by their gradual discovery of love for one another. (Watch for the brief flash of McGuire "half beautiful/half homely" near the end of the film). Unusual roles for both Young and McGuire, and arguably their best performances in any film of that decade.
Herbert Marshall gives a deft, deceptively "understated" performance as the blind "middle man" who helps them to really "see" for the first time. Brief but memorable performances from strong supporting cast; Spring Byington, Mildred Natwick and Hillary Brooke. Thoughtful cinematography, lighting and set decorations help sustain the mood and help capture the "willing suspension of disbelief" to allow you to accept the film's "enchanted" gifts.
The film has an especially touching musical score. A "tone poem" played on piano by narrator Herbert Marshall is the spring board for the flashback that reveals the story. The haunting melody reoccurs throughout the film in various moods.
Rarely shown, and unfortunately not available on video, this wonderful film is available on Turner Classic Movies. Set your VCR or alarm clock to stay up after midnight for this one. It (the story) will haunt you for a long, long time. It would be an especially magical film to watch on the "big screen" should a repertory cinema near you have the good instincts to revive this classic.
Herbert Marshall gives a deft, deceptively "understated" performance as the blind "middle man" who helps them to really "see" for the first time. Brief but memorable performances from strong supporting cast; Spring Byington, Mildred Natwick and Hillary Brooke. Thoughtful cinematography, lighting and set decorations help sustain the mood and help capture the "willing suspension of disbelief" to allow you to accept the film's "enchanted" gifts.
The film has an especially touching musical score. A "tone poem" played on piano by narrator Herbert Marshall is the spring board for the flashback that reveals the story. The haunting melody reoccurs throughout the film in various moods.
Rarely shown, and unfortunately not available on video, this wonderful film is available on Turner Classic Movies. Set your VCR or alarm clock to stay up after midnight for this one. It (the story) will haunt you for a long, long time. It would be an especially magical film to watch on the "big screen" should a repertory cinema near you have the good instincts to revive this classic.