Separate Tables

This film takes place at an old English Inn by the sea. Four central characters suffering from loneliness, regret and bitterness come together. A human story. It is well directed and acted. The setting is cozy. You will feel as though you are among them and will feel close to the characters. A perfect film to each on a stormy night in front of the fire.

I enjoyed this movie immensely. I went back and watched parts of it over because it was done so well. The actors show the greatness and degradation of human nature under the duress of great personal obstacles and non-ideal circumstances. Burt Lancaster is both bold and vulnerable, directly honest and compassionately understanding. One person exhibits unsurpassed understanding with unselfish love. To me, this is a love story on many levels; manipulative love, selfish, lonely love, the love of people's opinion, love battling fear and finally... well, you need to watch it and see.

It's 2020 I'm 59 & I just finished watching this for the first time. I immediately had to watch it over again it was so good. This is one of those movies that you'll want to see over & over. The acting was superb. I was so touched by the personalities dynamics of every single character in this film. My favorite genre is drama & I prefer black and white so this was right up my alley. At the end I held my breath & when The End came up on the screen I started crying. I had to watch the whole thing a second time & I will be purchasing the DVD for sure. There wasn't a boring moment and the ending was the best part. I wish there was a sequel! I would of loved to of seen the Major and the shy gal get together slowly as they talk and share moments at the hotel. It would have made a great romance!

This is without doubt one of the best films I have ever seen. The fact that it all takes place in one small Bournemouth (England) hotel, no violence, no special effects, no thousands of extras, or vast expenditure says it all. Excellent performances from a star studded cast, especially David Niven. It is gripping from start to finish, but by modern standards in a gentle way. A movie possibly mainly for women, but as a man I can only say that I found it very moving. A film I will always watch whenever it comes around as it always will. A classic.

I don't know why, sometimes I think it may have to do with previous lives, otherwise why do I feel so comfortable within the discomforts of this English seaside hotel. But the fact is that, often, I want to put it on and sit at one of the tables myself. I believe that Terence Rattigan is the main reason. What a wonderful writer. Then, Gladys Cooper of course, how can such a perfidious mother be such a pleasure to watch? Maybe is that explosive combination of Rattigan/Cooper. Wendy Hiller in one of her few meaty roles in movies, she won an Oscar for it and every nuance, every look is worth pages and pages of exposition. Exquisite. Cathleen Nesbitt is a joy to behold. Deborah Kerr, David Niven who also won the Oscar for his sad impostor, Burt Lancaster and Rita Hayworth bring a dash of Hollywood to the grayness of Bournemouth. Okay, now, dinner is served. Don't let it get cold.

David Niven, who was never given the credit he deserved for his enormous talent, gives the performance of his career in "Separate Tables." Instead of playing the perpetual nice guy, he is a definite shady character. He deceives everyone into believing that he's a reputable person, especially shy Deborah Kerr. But soon, it is revealed that he's not the person he appears to be, with possible disastrous outcomes... Featuring a fantastic all-star cast, including Burt Lancaster, Rita Hayworth, and Rod Taylor, "Separate Tables" seems to be a forgotten masterpiece. It was nominated for 7 Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actress, and won two...including one for the magnificent David Niven. I highly recommend this movie!