|
|
      
|
Gaslight This film is the ultimate "woman in danger" movie. Ingrid Bergman stars as Paula, a British singer who was sent away after her famous aunt was mysteriously murdered 20 years ago. She has found love with Gregory (Charles Boyer), a debonair man with a love for jewelry. After getting married, Gregory in interested in moving back to London, but Paula does not want to face her past. He convinces her to move back into the home (and scene of the crime), but this causes trouble. Gregory ceases to be the wonderful, loving man she married. He becomes authoritative, nasty and questions her sanity. Paula starts to lose her mind due to this treatment and constant questioning. She is on the verge of a nervous breakdown, which worries the staff. Brian (Joseph Cotton), a low-level man at Scotland Yard, becomes interested in the case of Paula's dead Aunt after he sees Paula during a rare trip outside the home. Although all leads have gone cold, he is determined to crack the case. Is Gregory dangerous? What are his motives for such strange behavior? Why does Brian care? The film is a good study of basic filmmaking. Director George Cukar and the writers fill the movie with basic foreshadowing techniques that give the audience a hint at the final plot resolution. However, the acting keeps you involved, even if you can figure out the ending. The best acting belongs to the women of the movie. Ingrid Bergman won her first Oscar for her role in the film. To prepare for the part, Bergman visited a mental institution and studied a woman who suffered a nervous breakdown. Angela Lansbury, just 18 years old and making her film debut, was nominated for Best Supporting Actress. At the time, she was working at Bullock's Department Store in London when she landed the role. Her boss, not knowing what Lansbury's new job was, offered to match her increased salary. However, he was unable to give her a raise from $27/week to $500/week. If you are in the mood for a good mystery this week, check out Gaslight. Grade: A Directed by George Cukar Written by John Van Druten, Walter Reisch and John Balderson Cast Charles Boyer …………………. Gregory Ingrid Bergman ……………….... Paula Joseph Cotton …………………. Brian Angela Lansbury ………………. Nancy Copyright 2000 - WaffleMovies.com |
