La femme aux maléfices

Nicholas Ray beautifully directs this well-cast drama of a scheming woman (Fontaine) hiding behind an innocent exterior. Fashionable Fontaine is savvy, well-versed, lovely and fascinating in the lead role, one of her best, in lust with the rugged Robert Ryan, but tempted by the millions of Howard Hughes-esquire Zachary Scott. Scott's engaged to Joan Leslie, while Mel Ferrer is amusing ("I have to convince husbands that I'm harmless to their wives") as a painter. Notice that when Fontaine begins to lie, she turns away from her "victim" while she states her untruths, nicely done. The jewelry shop scene is hilarious; musical score is also very effective. Great script: a woman party-goer says to Ferrer, "Do you think my husband would like to see a portrait of me hanging over the fireplace?" Ferrer: "I think your husband would like to see you hanging any place."

This is a soap opera movie of sorts. The plot twists and dialog at times is HIGHLY reminiscent of a soap. However, due to really good acting, particularly by Robert Ryan and Zachary Scott, this movie rises a little above the plot and makes it worth watching. Now, I cannot imagine teens or those with a need for explosions and kooky dialog being impressed by the film and there are no scantily-clad bimbos either. But, for someone who appreciates good acting and older movies, it is very good. Should you rush out to rent it? Probably not. But should it come on Turner Classic Movies or some other channel, I recommend you give it a look. It's worth it.