This is the first time I watched this movie and I was totally absorbed in it. I loved Greer Garson in Mrs. Miniver, and again, in The Valley of Decision she gives another outstanding performance. Gregory Peck turns in his usual excellent performance as Paul Scott, the son of a wealthy steel mill owner (Donald Crisp), who falls in love with Mary (Greer Garson), the hired housekeeper. This romantic story may seem predictable at times, and yet, this held my undivided attention throughout. I found both of them believable as they struggled with their feelings for each other amidst family feuds and class bigotry. Mary unselfishly puts aside her own desires for Paul's sake and turns down his proposal of marriage. As the years go by, Paul marries Louise (Jessica Tandy)an embittered woman who cared nothing for the family or for Paul's devotion to the mill. On the other hand, Mary was a sympathetic and caring woman who was loved by almost everyone. Without revealing too much, I was delighted to see that love and good sense triumphed in the end. It is no surprise that Garson was nominated for her performance and all of the players were well cast for their respective roles. This is a memorable, heartfelt movie and I highly recommend it.
Review of The Valley of Decision
